Chef Narayan Shrestha

Nepalese Pastry Chef & a Global Culinary Innovator, Chef Narayan Shrestha (born 1994) is an award-winning Nepalese pastry chef whose journey from a remote village in Dhading to one of the world’s most prestigious pastry competitions has inspired countless culinary professionals across South Asia and beyond.

In 2024, Narayan captured international attention by winning Channel 4’s Bake Off: The Professionals in the United Kingdom, alongside teammate Tanuj Sharma. Their victory not only set a new benchmark for excellence but also made history: they were among the first Nepalese chefs to triumph in a mainstream European culinary competition, bringing visibility to Nepal’s emerging pastry talent.

Early Life and Beginnings:

Narayan was born and raised in Maidi, Dhading District, Nepal. From an early age, he displayed curiosity for craftsmanship and creativity — qualities that would later define his pastry work. After completing high school, he set out to forge a career in hospitality, leaving Nepal in 2014 to work as a kitchen helper at DoubleTree by Hilton, Dubai.

With limited resources but unlimited drive, Narayan embraced every opportunity to learn. His early experiences washing dishes and prepping ingredients laid the groundwork for a disciplined work ethic that would shape his ascent.

Professional Growth:

Narayan’s passion for pastry emerged during his tenure at Four Seasons Hotel Doha, where he was introduced to the delicate world of desserts and viennoiserie. Determined to excel, he sought mentorship from seasoned pastry chefs and immersed himself in the techniques of modern European patisserie.

He continued his professional development at Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, rising through the ranks to become a respected member of the pastry brigade. Here, he refined his expertise in plated desserts, chocolate artistry, and contemporary presentation, while also cultivating a signature style: precise, elegant, and narrative-driven.

Move to the UK and Bake Off Triumph:

In 2023, Narayan relocated to the United Kingdom to broaden his horizons, joining the pastry team at InterContinental London – The O2 as Sous Chef. His work ethic and creativity quickly earned him a leadership role, setting the stage for his entry into Bake Off: The Professionals.

Throughout the 2024 competition, Narayan and Tanuj impressed judges with their flawless execution, artistic vision, and ability to deliver under pressure. Their winning creations — including elaborate chocolate showpieces and modern entremets — showcased a fusion of classical French technique with contemporary flavors, inspired by their South Asian heritage and global experience.

Their victory was widely covered in British and South Asian media outlets, including:

• BBC News

• The Guardian

• Channel 4

• The Kathmandu Post

• Gulf Times

• HospitalityNet

• Multiple culinary magazines and social media platforms

Narayan’s success has been celebrated as a milestone for Nepalese chefs working internationally and has sparked renewed interest in pastry education and professional training among young cooks in Nepal.

Personal Philosophy and Creative Influences:

Narayan often shares that his inspirations come from nature, travel, and photography — passions that inform both the aesthetics and emotional storytelling behind his desserts. Whether designing a plated dessert or a large-scale showpiece, he focuses on balancing flavors with visual harmony, creating experiences that linger in the memory.

He believes in the power of hard work, humility, and lifelong learning — values he credits for carrying him from a kitchen helper in Dubai to the champion’s podium in London.

Legacy and Future:

Beyond competition, Narayan is dedicated to mentoring young pastry chefs and advocating for the recognition of Nepalese talent on the international culinary stage. He regularly shares insights and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his work on his social media handles, where he engages with fellow professionals and aspiring chefs.

Looking ahead, Narayan plans to publish a book on modern pastry techniques inspired by his cross-cultural journey and aims to open a boutique pastry studio blending Asian heritage with European finesse.

Connect with Narayan:

• Instagram: @chefnarayanshrestha

• LinkedIn: Narayan Shrestha

• Media Features: BBC News, The Guardian, The Kathmandu Post, Channel 4

• Awards: Winner, Bake Off: The Professionals (2024)

Narayan Shrestha stands as an inspiring example of how dedication, skill, and vision can transcend borders — proving that no dream is too distant when you rise with purpose.