In 2012, when I left my job, I wanted to start a coffee shop business. I took an extensive 15 days Professional Barista course. The project didn't click, but my ample knowledge extracted the coffee lover from me afterwards. To cut a long story short, one

1. Trisara, The Baking Factory, Lazimpat

 

Taste: The aroma was lower in smell because it was in an open space. It doesn't look impressive as the first look of crema was very thin. But, when I had the first sip, it gave me a stroke of strong coffee in my head. No acidity and the mildly bitter flavour were the USP of the coffee. Overall it was a strong coffee experience.

 

Ambience:- Sit with friends or alone. You will get good sunny vibes when the wind hits a big tree in the parking area. It blows your face with a cool breeze. If you are alone, you can grab your favourite coffee and watch the vehicle passing by outside the road of Lazimpat. A great location to have a coffee any time, morning to evening.

 

Coffee Beans: Katmandu Coffee

Coffee: Americano

Rating: 3.5/5

Price: NPR 180/-

 

2. Radisson Hotel, Kathmandu

 

Taste:- The aroma was like a perfect match of espresso and milk. When I had the first sip, it was an absolute delight with balanced sweetness and taste of skimmed milk. Only a thin layer of foam on the top and medium body taste did additional magic on my palate. The natural sweetness (without added sugar) and deliciousness remained on my tongue. Overall, a perfect cup of harmony.

 

Ambience:- No need to say it's a 10/10 classy coffee shop built with three side window views on the 3rd floor of the hotel building. A big spacious coffee shop where you can enjoy a lavish continental breakfast with your favourite cup of coffee.

 

Coffee Beans: @lavazzait

Coffee: Latte

Rating: 4.5/5  

Price: NPR 475 ++

 

3. Cafe O2, Durbarmarg

 

Taste:- A single-origin coffee is like having a "single malt whiskey" grown at a specific geographic location. One of the main characteristics of coffee is its taste. Unlike other blended coffee beans, the flavour will be peculiar and consistent by nature. Each time the coffee lovers come to the cafe, the coffee will be indifferent and gives the same taste and uncompromised quality.

 

A thick layer of crema with a strong aroma gives you a fulfilling smooth taste. When you take a sip, it's a medium body experience on your palate. Overall, it gives you an absolute kick which you need to start your day. 

 

Ambience: It was a small but cosy cafe with indoor and outdoor settings. The space is very well located, outside the quiet alley of Yak & Yeti Hotel, and the interior looks even bright & beautiful in the evening light. A place to enjoy good coffee with a delicious pizza.

 

Coffee Beans: Spark (Single Origin Coffee) Medium Roast  

Coffee: Americano (single shot)

Coffee Shop: Cafe O2

Rating: 4.5/5

Price: 120/- (Single Shot) 

 

4. Aagantuk Resort, Dhulikhel

 

Taste: A very classy designed cup welcomes you with a thin layer of crema. But as I took the first sip and held on to my palate, it gave me a very bitter taste. Honestly, it's a bad coffee. Late,r when I checked the beans, it was over-roasted, and the colour was black. Later I chose to have Nescafe instead of beans coffee for my stay of two nights and three days.

 

My sincere suggestion to the management would be to hire a good barista who knows which one is good beans and which is not. Your guest deserves at least a good cup of coffee.

 

Ambience: @aagantukresort is one of the best conceptually designed with the thematic architecture of ant house. The rooms are open and east-facing. It gives a magnificent view. The food was delicious, and you will be able to enjoy a 3-course breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

 

Located in one of the best mountain regions of Nepal, Dhulikhel has been one of the shortest drives from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu city.

 

Coffee Beans: Dark Roast

Coffee: Americano (double shot)

Rating: 2/5