From Kathmandu to Lisbon, Tampa, Tokyo: Nepali Cuisine Earns Michelin Recognition

Nepali cuisine has taken a proud step onto the world culinary stage with three Nepalese restaurants featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide 2025, marking a significant moment for Nepal’s food culture and international recognition.

The restaurants—Gorkhali Kitchen in Tampa (USA), Oven in Lisbon (Portugal), and OLD NEPAL in Tokyo (Japan)—have been acknowledged for their authentic flavors, innovative execution, and commitment to the culinary heritage of Nepal. Among them, Gorkhali Kitchen received the notable Bib Gourmand distinction, awarded for offering exceptional food at a moderate price.

In Lisbon, Chef Hari Chapagain leads Oven, a contemporary Nepalese restaurant that brings together the flavors of India and Nepal through tandoor-cooked dishes like naan bread and grilled meats marinated in Himalayan spices. The open kitchen concept, from which the restaurant takes its name, offers diners a direct view into the traditional cooking process.

In Tokyo, OLD NEPAL offers a nostalgic journey through Nepali gastronomy, recreating classic dishes like dal bhat with artistic presentation and cultural storytelling. The restaurant’s décor, which features street scenes of Kathmandu, adds to its immersive dining experience.

Gorkhali Kitchen in Tampa has become a local favorite, celebrated for its wide array of dishes including fiery chili momos, goat curries, and sekuwa. Its Bib Gourmand listing reinforces its position as a standout Himalayan restaurant in the American South.

This recognition from Michelin reflects growing global interest in Nepalese cuisine and its ability to balance tradition with contemporary appeal. Culinary leaders in Nepal have welcomed the news as a breakthrough moment for the country’s food diplomacy and international culinary identity.

Chef Nepal, the country’s premier culinary platform, has announced plans to feature in-depth stories and exclusive interviews from these acclaimed restaurants in its upcoming content lineup.