A Celebration of Global Culinary Collaboration

On November 9, 2025, Aloft Kathmandu Thamel proudly hosted the US–Nepal Gastronomy Exchange 2025, a landmark culinary event that brought together Michelin-starred chefs and culinary masters from the United States, France, Singapore, Dubai, and Nepal. The event celebrated the spirit of cross-cultural collaboration through food, creativity, and innovation.

The highlight of the exchange, La Grande Bhoj, took place on November 9 at Aloft Kathmandu Thamel, where guests experienced an exquisite seven-course dining journey that reimagined Nepali flavors through a global lens. The menu was jointly curated by Chef Arjun Kumar Ranabhat, President of the US–Nepal Gastronomy Chefs Association, and Chef Rajeev Shrestha, Executive Chef of Aloft Kathmandu Thamel. Together, they showcased a seamless fusion of local ingredients and contemporary culinary artistry.

“It was an honor for Aloft Kathmandu Thamel to host the US–Nepal Gastronomy Exchange 2025 and to welcome some of the most talented chefs from around the world,” said Vikram Singh, General Manager of Aloft Kathmandu Thamel. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to promoting Nepal’s culinary excellence and establishing Kathmandu as a rising destination for global gastronomy.”

Culinary Highlights from La Grande Bhoj

Guests indulged in a meticulously crafted menu that reflected innovation, authenticity, and artistry:

• Barah – Black lentil pancake with bhang (cannabis) sauce, sisno geele, yak cheese foam, and a perfect egg, paired with Nepali Aila infused with juniper berries and ginger root.
• Sous Vide Octopus Scallop – Marinated zucchini spiral in Asian broth with green tea foam and black ink tuile, paired with Gramona Gessamí, Catalunya, Spain (2023).
• Sous Vide Duck Confit “Croustillant” – With turmeric parsnip purée, Himalayan 12-spice jus, and carrot medley, paired with Vesper Merlot I.G.P., La Carraia, Umbria, Italy (2022).
• Sous Vide Lamb Loin “Chengra” – Himalayan herb-rubbed lamb loin with smoked eggplant caviar, cauliflower steak, and English pea purée – a tribute to Nepal’s diverse mountain flavors.

Each course celebrated Nepal’s rich culinary heritage, elevated through world-class techniques and modern presentation – a true reflection of Aloft’s passion for creativity and culture.

A Culinary Milestone for Nepal

The US–Nepal Gastronomy Exchange 2025 marked a defining moment for Nepal’s hospitality and culinary landscape. As the official hospitality partner and host, Aloft Kathmandu Thamel welcomed international and local chefs, dignitaries, and culinary enthusiasts, strengthening Nepal’s reputation as a vibrant destination for global gastronomy.

Check out the full video, to know more about “La Grande Bhoj”:

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