San Maru Restaurant

I recently had dinner at San Maru Restaurant in Thimphu and had a very good experience. This is a simple, local restaurant that serves authentic Korean food. The focus here is on good food rather than fancy presentation, which I appreciated. This was my first time trying Korean food in Bhutan, and I found the dishes to be tasty, light, and healthy. The food did not feel heavy or oily, and the flavours were well balanced. I also tried Korean rice wine for the first time. It was slightly sweet and smooth, and I enjoyed it. It went well with the meal and was easy to drink. The restaurant has an open and comfortable seating area. Even though it is located right in the centre of Thimphu, it was not noisy or crowded. The atmosphere felt relaxed, making it a good place for a calm meal, whether you are dining alone or with friends. Service was fast and efficient. The staff were polite and helpful, and the food arrived quickly. This made the overall experience smooth and pleasant. In summary, San Maru Restaurant is a good choice if you are looking for authentic Korean food in Thimphu. It offers healthy options, a quiet setting, and quick service at a central location. I would recommend it to both locals and visitors who want a simple and enjoyable dining experience.

I did not expect to have Korean Food in Bhutan. Surprisingly the place gave me exceptional experience. Even through there was no beef from the menu, it offered the good taste of Yak bbq instead. The side dishes were also generous, especially a whole Korean pancake. It's definitely a go to place when visiting Timpu.

This was my first time trying Korean BBQ, and it was such a wonderful experience! The staff were very welcoming, and the atmosphere felt warm and comfortable from the moment we arrived. We ordered the pork belly, which was perfectly seasoned, and enjoyed the variety of small side dishes — it was such a fun way to try different flavors. The set also came with rice and a delicious soup that complemented the meal beautifully. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. To finish, my husband and I had the lemon and orange tea — a unique combination that was both refreshing and full of flavor. I’m so happy I chose this place for my first Korean BBQ experience, and I’m already looking forward to coming back!

Absolutely delicious, fresh, nourishing Korean food served in a warm wooden setting. Not to mention the sweet old dog that lives here and greets guests. The ginger tea made with real ginger root is so good.

Authentic Korean eats in Thimphu “A cozy spot in the heart of Thimphu with delicious Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimchi and gimbab. Great flavour and friendly service make this a must-visit when you want something different from local cuisine. A bit pricier than average, but worth it for the quality.”

Had a nice blend of Korean and Bhutanese food. Service is great and the food even better. They served a variety of Korean side dishes. The kimchi, pancakes and picked veggies were so good. The tuna sushi was amazing. Definitely try it. It is located in the heart of Thimphu city.

I recently had the pleasure of dining at San Maru Restaurant in Thimphu, Bhutan, and I must say, it was a delightful experience! 🌟 This quaint Korean restaurant, though offering a limited menu, ensures every dish is crafted to perfection. Each bite of their authentic Korean cuisine transported me straight to Seoul. The flavors were rich, well-balanced, and genuinely satisfying. The ambience at San Maru is another highlight. The decor is simple yet elegant, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. 🌿 The seating arrangement is comfortable, and the soft lighting adds to the overall charm. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet meal or a cozy dinner with friends and family. Despite the limited number of items on the menu, each dish is carefully curated and thoughtfully prepared. 🍲 The quality of the ingredients and the expertise of the chefs truly shine through. I particularly enjoyed the bibimbap and kimchi, both of which were bursting with flavor. The portion sizes are just right, ensuring you leave satisfied but not overly full. Overall, I highly recommend San Maru Restaurant to anyone visiting Thimphu. It’s a must-visit for Korean food lovers and those looking to enjoy a delicious meal in a pleasant setting. 🥢 San Maru has definitely earned a spot on my list of favorite dining spots in Bhutan!

It’s a great spot to enjoy Korean cuisine, with unique flavors that stand out from other Korean restaurants. The prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality makes it worth it.