National Geographic Magazine has spotlighted Mithila Thali, recognizing it as one of South Asia’s finest local cuisines and applauding the efforts of celebrated Nepali chef Santosh Shah, whose culinary innovation has brought Nepal’s traditional food culture to an international platform.
According to the feature, Mithila Thali currently serves over 500 customers daily, reflecting its growing popularity. The magazine highlights Chef Santosh’s distinctive approach, combining local ingredients, authentic home-style flavors, and traditional cooking techniques with modern presentation. This blend, it notes, is helping Nepali cuisine gain visibility and appreciation in the global food and hospitality industry.
Chef Santosh Shah Expresses Pride in Global Recognition
Responding to the international acclaim, Chef Santosh expressed deep pride and joy. “I feel extremely happy when my hometown and its local food are appreciated at the international level. Being recognized by a global magazine like National Geographic for my restaurant, cuisine, and birthplace is truly a matter of pride,” he said.
He emphasized that maintaining high quality standards is essential for introducing Nepali food to the world. Chef Santosh added that he remains committed to hard work and innovation to further elevate Nepal’s culinary heritage in the global gastronomy scene, fostering growth in food tourism and cultural tourism.
Janakpur Highlighted as a Cultural and Culinary Hub
In its feature, National Geographic also describes Janakpur as a city rich in religious significance, cultural heritage, and vibrant culinary traditions. The article praises the grandeur and artistic beauty of the Janaki Temple, while noting the city’s growing reputation as a major destination for spiritual tourism, cultural travel, and food tourism in South Asia.
The magazine presents Mithila cuisine as one of the region’s most refined traditional food cultures. Previously, Lonely Planet had also listed Janakpurdham as an emerging hotspot for cultural, religious, and food tourism, further elevating Nepal’s profile in global travel rankings.
Expansion of Mithila Thali Brand
Chef Santosh Shah has extended the reach of Mithila cuisine beyond Janakpur through his brand “Mithila Thali by Santosh Shah.” The brand currently operates vegetarian restaurants in Jhamsikhel (Lalitpur) and Naxal and Gaushala (Kathmandu).
Additionally, to introduce visitors to Janakpur-style fish cuisine, he operates Janakpur Fish House in Naxal, bringing authentic regional flavors to urban diners. Looking ahead, Chef Santosh announced plans to open a new Mithila Thali outlet in Birgunj in the coming months, further expanding the presence of indigenous Nepali cuisine across the country and strengthening its position in the regional food market.
A Milestone in Nepal’s Culinary and Cultural Branding
The recognition by National Geographic marks a significant milestone for Nepali cuisine, culinary entrepreneurship, and Nepal’s soft power diplomacy. It reinforces the country’s growing identity in global food culture, tourism markets, and creative industries.
By celebrating Mithila Thali and the efforts of Chef Santosh Shah, the feature strengthens Nepal’s image as a rising destination for unique culinary experiences, cultural richness, and authentic hospitality on the world stage.
