Chef Rajesh Brings Nepali Chhoila and Momo to Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay

Kathmandu / Tampa — Nepali cuisine reached one of the world’s most influential culinary stages as Chef Rajesh Pathak became the first Nepali chef ever to appear on Food Network’s globally renowned competitive cooking show, Beat Bobby Flay. His appearance in Season 38, Episode 11 – “Razzle Dazzle” marked a historic moment for Nepal’s culinary fraternity and brought iconic Nepali flavors to a worldwide television audience.

Chef Rajesh Pathak, owner of Gorkhali Kitchen (Tampa, Florida) and Dancing Yeti (Orlando, Florida), proudly represented Nepal not just as a competitor, but as a cultural ambassador - introducing traditional Newari and Nepali dishes on one of television’s most demanding culinary platforms.

From Kathmandu to Global Television

Born and raised in Kathmandu, Nepal, Chef Rajesh developed his passion for cooking at a young age, learning traditional Nepali recipes alongside his mother. His culinary journey later took him to the United States, where his early professional experience at a Greek restaurant laid the foundation for a diverse culinary career. After years in corporate hospitality, he opened Gorkhali Kitchen in Tampa in 2022, a restaurant that quickly gained national recognition and earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, celebrating soulful, authentic Nepali cuisine.

Mushroom Chhoila Shines in the First Round

In the first round of Beat Bobby Flay, Chef Rajesh was challenged with trumpet mushrooms, a single ingredient chosen by Bobby Flay himself. Drawing from his roots, he transformed the ingredient into Mushroom Chhoila, a beloved Newari snack/appetizer traditionally prepared with bold spices and smoky flavors.

Chef Rajesh presented Chhoila in a refined, contemporary salad-style interpretation, impressing the judges with its depth of flavor, originality, and cultural authenticity. His dish secured a victory over his Japanese opponent, advancing him to the second round and marking a proud moment as Nepali cuisine claimed a win on global television.

Challenging Bobby Flay with Momo

For the second round, Chef Rajesh made a bold and meaningful choice—selecting Chicken Momo, Nepal’s most iconic dish, to challenge Bobby Flay himself. With just 45 minutes on the clock, both chefs prepared the dish from scratch, including dough, filling, and accompanying sauces.

While Bobby Flay was making momo for the first time, the judges were impressed by both interpretations. In a closely contested decision, Chef Rajesh was unable to beat Flay in the final round. However, the outcome did little to overshadow the significance of the moment.

Beyond Winning or Losing

More than a competition result, Chef Rajesh Pathak’s appearance on Beat Bobby Flay stands as a major milestone for Nepali cuisine. By showcasing Chhoila and Momo on a global television network, he amplified awareness of Nepal’s rich culinary heritage and demonstrated that Nepali food belongs on the world’s biggest stages.

“Appearing on a platform like Beat Bobby Flay is about visibility, representation, and pride,” Chef Rajesh shared. “It was an opportunity to cook from my roots and honor the flavors that shaped my journey.”

A Proud Moment for Nepal’s Culinary Community

Chef Nepal congratulates Chef Rajesh Pathak for this groundbreaking achievement. His journey—from Kathmandu kitchens to Michelin recognition and now to Food Network—serves as an inspiration for Nepali chefs worldwide.

This historic appearance reinforces a powerful message: Nepali cuisine is global, competitive, and worthy of international recognition.