Chatamari (चतामरी) is one of the most iconic dishes of Newari cuisine — a thin, rice-flour crepe topped with minced meat, eggs, and vegetables. Because of its flat, round shape and savory toppings, it’s often called the “Newari pizza.”
Chatamari is a staple of Newar households and Newar restaurants across the Kathmandu Valley. It’s eaten as a snack, breakfast, or part of a larger feast.
What Is Chatamari?
Chatamari is made from a rice-flour batter — similar to dosa or crepe batter — which is spread thinly on a hot griddle. Before it firms up, it’s topped with:
- Minced meat (usually buffalo): Marinated with ginger, garlic, and timur
- Egg: Sometimes cracked directly onto the crepe
- Vegetables: Chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies
- Optional: Chopped coriander, cheese, or a squeeze of lemon
The crepe is cooked until the edges are crispy and the toppings are set. It’s served hot, usually with achar (pickle) on the side.
Variations of Chatamari
Chatamari comes in several varieties:
- Buff chatamari: The classic — minced buffalo meat
- Egg chatamari: Topped with a whole egg
- Chicken chatamari: Lighter, popular in tourist areas
- Veg chatamari: Cabbage, carrot, and peas
- Paneer chatamari: Cottage cheese topping
- Mixed chatamari: Meat, egg, and vegetables combined
- Sweet chatamari: A dessert version with molasses and sesame
Chatamari vs Other Dishes
Chatamari is sometimes confused with other Nepali dishes. Here’s how it compares:
| Dish | Base | Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Chatamari | Rice-flour crepe | Meat, egg, vegetables |
| Bara (Wo) | Lentil-flour pancake | Minced meat, egg |
| Dosa | Rice + lentil batter | Potato, onion, chutney |
| Pizza | Wheat-flour base | Cheese, tomato, toppings |
The main differences: chatamari uses rice flour only (not lentil), and it’s softer and thinner than bara.
Where to Try Chatamari
Chatamari is available at:
- Newari restaurants across the Kathmandu Valley
- Patan Durbar Square — traditional Newar eateries
- Bhaktapur — home of the most authentic Newar kitchens
- Kathmandu (Thamel, Ason): Newari Khaja Ghar and similar restaurants
Look for restaurants labelled “Newari Khaja Ghar” or “Newa Lahana.”
How Chatamari Is Served
A traditional chatamari meal includes:
- Chatamari (usually 1 or 2 per person)
- Achar: Spicy pickle or dipping sauce
- Choila: Grilled meat on the side
- Aila: Newar rice liquor (optional)
- Chhyang: Rice beer (optional)
At home, chatamari is often served as a snack or light meal.
Chatamari in Newar Culture
Chatamari is more than a dish — it’s a marker of Newar identity. It’s served at:
- Festivals: Especially during Newar festivals like Indra Jatra and Bisket Jatra
- Rituals: Chatamari is prepared for certain religious ceremonies
- Family gatherings: Newar households often make chatamari for guests
The dish reflects Newar innovation: using rice flour, which was locally abundant, to create something unique.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chatamari?
Chatamari is a thin rice-flour crepe topped with minced meat, eggs, and vegetables. It’s a signature Newar dish, often called the “Newari pizza.”
What is chatamari made of?
Chatamari is made from a rice-flour batter spread thinly on a hot griddle, topped with minced meat, egg, and vegetables. It’s served with achar.
What is the difference between chatamari and bara?
Chatamari uses rice flour; bara uses lentil flour. Chatamari is thinner and softer than bara.
Where can I try authentic chatamari?
Authentic chatamari is served at Newari restaurants across the Kathmandu Valley, especially in Patan, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu (Thamel, Ason). Look for “Newari Khaja Ghar” or “Newa Lahana.”
Read next: Explore the Food hub for the complete collection of Nepali food articles.
Related districts: Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kavrepalanchok, Makwanpur
