“Legacy Cookout Challenge” Brings Heritage Flavors to Life at Hotel Yak & Yeti

Events
The Buzz Nepal
January 11 , 2026

Hotel Yak & Yeti Kathmandu, in collaboration with Tasneem’s Kitchen, recently hosted a spectacular Legacy Cookout at Lal Durbar Convention Centre Crystal Palace Courtyard, bringing together guests from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds for an afternoon of culinary celebration and fun.

The event featured Chef Amit, Executive Sous Chef of Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu, who showcased the iconic Chicken Alakiev, a legacy dish originally created at Chimney, Nepal’s first fine-dining restaurant established in 1957. Chef Amit demonstrated the meticulous preparation of this renowned recipe while sharing its rich history, giving guests a rare glimpse into Nepal’s culinary heritage.

Following the demonstration, the excitement continued with a Cookout Challenge. Chef Amit guided participants through the preparation of a Nepali Mushroom Risotto, highlighting Yak & Yeti’s commitment to blending local ingredients with global culinary techniques. Guests were given 25 minutes to craft their own risotto using selected ingredients, testing their creativity, precision, and teamwork.

Six spirited teams Arborio, Butter, Shiitake, Thyme, Truffle, and Parmesan – competed, evaluated on presentation, hygiene, cleanliness, and taste. After an engaging judging session by Chef Amit and the Hotel’s General Manager, Team Arborio emerged victorious, winning exclusive Yak and Yeti gifts as keepsakes of this memorable culinary experience.

Message from the General Manager MR Gopinath Gopalan, Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu:
“It was a pleasure hosting such a vibrant gathering of culinary enthusiasts and distinguished guests at our Legacy Cookout. Events like these celebrate not only the rich heritage of Nepali cuisine but also the creativity and passion of those who love to cook and connect over food. We are proud to continue fostering experiences that bring people together and showcase the best of our local and global flavors.”

Yak & Yeti extends its heartfelt thanks to all participating guests, Chef Amit, and every member of the team who made this event a remarkable success. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Crystal Palace Courtyard, the Legacy Cookout was a vibrant celebration of food, skill, and camaraderie. Guests enjoyed not only the thrill of cooking but also the opportunity to connect with fellow delegates from diverse fields, making it an unforgettable highlight in Yak & Yeti’s ongoing commitment to exceptional experiences.

More than just a cooking contest, the event celebrated creativity, collaboration, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. It demonstrated how food can become a medium for connection, empowerment, and cultural expression, making the Legacy Cookout Challenge a memorable celebration of flavor, legacy, and innovation.

Check out exclusive pictures of the event from The Buzz Nepal.