Nepali Chef’s Culinary Excellence Recognized on European Stage
Baglung-native and renowned chef Tanka Sapkota has made the nation proud by winning a prestigious international accolade for his restaurant, Forno d’Oro, located in Lisbon, Portugal. The Italian-themed restaurant, founded and operated by Sapkota, has been ranked among the Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in Europe by 50 Top Pizza Europe, a globally recognized culinary guide.
This significant achievement not only places Forno d’Oro in the spotlight as Portugal’s number one pizza restaurant, but also makes it the first Portuguese establishment ever to break into the top 10 of this celebrated European listing.
Honored with Two Major International Awards
Chef Sapkota was honored with two coveted awards during a grand event hosted in Madrid, Spain:
- Top 10 Pizzeria in Europe Award 2025
- Performance of the Year 2025 – Robo Award
The 50 Top Pizza Europe award is based on strict evaluation criteria including taste, food quality, service, environment, traditional pizza-making techniques, and customer satisfaction. Sapkota’s Forno d’Oro met all these standards with excellence, propelling it into the European culinary elite.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Sapkota said, “To be recognized among the top 10 restaurants in Europe is not only a personal milestone but a matter of national pride. Being the first Portuguese restaurant ever to reach this position makes it even more special.”
Sapkota’s Culinary Journey and Impact
Tank Sapkota has been residing in Portugal for nearly 28 years and is considered a pioneer in promoting authentic Italian cuisine in the country. His contributions to the culinary arts go far beyond just food preparation. In the capital city of Lisbon alone, Sapkota currently operates three Italian restaurants and one Nepali restaurant.
His commitment to authentic flavors and culinary techniques has won him numerous awards and recognitions over the years. From mastering traditional Italian pizza-making to offering fusion dishes that respect cultural originality, Sapkota has consistently elevated the dining experience for locals and international visitors alike.
In addition to his restaurant work, Sapkota also engages in promoting food culture through media. A few months ago, he released a food documentary titled “Italiko Swad” (Taste of Italy), which showcases the tradition, preparation methods, and taste profiles of Italian cuisine. The film was well received in Portugal and among food lovers across Europe.
What Makes Forno d’Oro Stand Out?
Located in a bustling area of Lisbon, Forno d’Oro has gained popularity for its wood-fired pizzas, use of authentic Italian ingredients, and exceptional hospitality. The restaurant’s interior combines rustic Italian charm with contemporary elegance, offering an inviting ambiance for casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts alike.
More importantly, the restaurant emphasizes sustainable practices, including sourcing organic ingredients and promoting local suppliers. The team of chefs, trained under Sapkota’s guidance, maintains rigorous standards in food hygiene and presentation, which has led to consistent praise from both customers and critics.
The success of Forno d’Oro underlines the growing influence of Nepali entrepreneurs in the global culinary landscape, showcasing that with skill, dedication, and passion, Nepali chefs can compete and triumph at the highest international levels.
A Role Model for Nepali Youth and Aspiring Chefs
Chef Sapkota’s journey from Baglung to Lisbon is not just a success story, but an inspiration for aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs from Nepal. His life stands as a testament to how hard work, cultural pride, and global adaptability can open international doors.
Despite being immersed in the Portuguese and Italian food scenes, Sapkota continues to embrace and promote his Nepali roots. His Nepali restaurant in Lisbon offers traditional Nepali dishes like momo, gundruk soup, and sel roti, drawing both the Nepali diaspora and curious food lovers from other cultures.
Looking forward, Sapkota aims to expand his brand and possibly collaborate with culinary institutions in Nepal to help elevate Nepali cuisine globally.
Recognition Beyond Borders
The 50 Top Pizza Europe awards are widely regarded as one of the most respected recognitions in the international restaurant industry. Winning two awards in such a forum solidifies Sapkota’s status as a world-class chef and entrepreneur.
Food critics and business analysts note that this kind of achievement not only boosts the profile of a single individual but also opens the door for greater culinary tourism, cultural appreciation, and investment opportunities linked with Nepal.
A Moment of National Pride
As Nepal continues to grow its footprint in global sectors, this win in the culinary field is both symbolic and significant. It sends a clear message: Nepalis can lead, innovate, and thrive in global arenas, from the Himalayas to high-end kitchens in Europe.
Chef Tanka Sapkota’s dedication and international recognition highlight the hidden potential within Nepal’s people, and reinforce the value of cross-cultural collaboration in today’s interconnected world.
