La Grande Bhoj: A Historic Culinary Journey Bridging Nepal and the World

On November 9, 2025, Kathmandu will witness an unprecedented culinary event – La Grande Bhoj, a luxurious fine dining experience that promises to elevate Nepali cuisine to the global stage. This exclusive dinner, set against the backdrop of the five-star Aloft Hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu, is the first of its kind in Nepal, bringing together a distinguished ensemble of Michelin-starred chefs from around the world.

At the helm of this gastronomic celebration is Chef Arjun Ranabhat, President of the US-Nepal Gastronomy Chefs Association. A culinary visionary celebrated for blending refined French techniques with the soulful flavors of Nepal, Chef Ranabhat has dedicated his career to showcasing Nepali cuisine on the world stage through innovation, education, and cross-cultural collaboration. His leadership in organizing La Grande Bhoj underscores a commitment to redefining Nepal's culinary identity and fostering global recognition.

Joining Chef Arjun for the grand fine dining event are several globally acclaimed chefs, each bringing their own expertise and flair to the culinary stage. From the United States, Chef Ram Thapa, a celebrated executive chef and restaurateur, is admired for blending Nepali flavors with global cuisines while inspiring the Nepali culinary community worldwide. Representing Nepal, Chef Rajiv Shrestha, Executive Chef at Aloft Hotel Kathmandu, has proudly showcased the nation’s rich culinary heritage at international gastronomy festivals. From France, an impressive lineup adds depth and prestige: Chef Bruno Bertin, a 3-Michelin-starred chef, World Champion Commis Rôtisseur, and Maitre Cuisinier de France, renowned for making Michelin-star recipes accessible to wider audiences; Chef Bertrand Bouquin of Burgundy, who brings over 30 years of culinary experience, having trained under legends like Alain Ducasse and Daniel Boulud; and Chef Florian Bellanger, a veteran pastry artist and former Executive Pastry Chef at Fauchon, widely recognized for his inventive desserts and his role as a judge on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. Adding further international diversity, Chef Taylor Fernandes from the United States, Senior Manager of R&D and Food & Beverage Innovation at Starbucks, introduces forward-looking culinary solutions driven by consumer insights. Completing the French delegation, Chef Sylvie Grucker contributes her signature elegance, creativity, and finesse, while Chef Alexandre Seince, with deep roots in traditional French cooking and international experience in cities like Bangalore, adds authenticity and global perspective. Together, this extraordinary assembly of chefs promises an unforgettable Michelin-inspired dining experience.

The evening will feature a curated menu that marries the finest imported ingredients—such as black truffles from France, Alaskan caviar, and ducks from Hudson Valley—with locally sourced Nepali produce. Each dish will be a testament to the chefs' commitment to excellence and their respect for Nepal's rich culinary heritage.

Tickets for this exclusive event are available through eSewa, priced at NPR 20,000 per person, which includes a fine selection of wines and spirits. This partnership with eSewa underscores the event's commitment to accessibility and convenience for attendees.

Following the gala dinner, the culinary team will embark on a historic expedition to the Everest region, where they will conduct a high-altitude cookout at over 5,000 meters. This groundbreaking event will showcase the resilience and adaptability of Nepali and international chefs in one of the world's most challenging environments, highlighting Nepal's potential as a hub for gastronomic innovation and tourism.

La Grande Bhoj is not just an event; it is a movement—a celebration of Nepali culinary heritage, a platform for global collaboration, and a testament to the vision of Chef Arjun Ranabhat and the US-Nepal Gastronomy Chefs Association. Through this initiative, Nepal is poised to shine on the global culinary map, inviting the world to experience its flavors, traditions, and innovations.

This event is curated by Eleven Eleven in association with the US-Nepal Gastronomy Chefs Association. Title sponsor of the event is Daddy's Kitchen and Cuisine Solution is a Culinary Partner. Hospitality partner and venue is Aloft Hotel Kathmandu. Magazine partner is WOW magazine. Culinary media partner is Chef Nepal. Ticketing partner is eSewa. This event is supported by Zwiesel Fortessa, Prime Hydroponics, Everyday Uniforms – USA, and others.

Save the date and secure your seat for this grand culinary celebration.