Nepali culinary maestro Rahul Babu Shrestha has been recognized as the Future Great of the Year 2026 by the prestigious French culinary organization Gault & Millau. The award, which celebrates emerging talent in the Middle East’s fine dining sector, was presented at an event held at the renowned Atlantis, The Royal Hotel in the UAE. Shrestha was among five chefs recognized in the individual chef category, standing out from a highly competitive shortlist.
Recognition for Culinary Excellence
Shrestha, currently serving as Head Chef at Row on 45, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Dubai under renowned chef Jason Atherton, earned the accolade for his outstanding contributions to menu innovation, creative dish design, and leadership of the kitchen team. His visionary approach to modern British cuisine, blending technical precision with inventive flair, was cited as a key factor in his selection.
In addition to chefs, the ceremony also honored twelve restaurants across multiple categories, celebrating excellence in the hospitality and gastronomy sectors.
A Journey of Global Experience
Shrestha’s culinary journey reflects years of dedicated international training and experience. After completing his studies at the University of East Anglia in the UK, he pursued internships and professional stints in world-renowned kitchens, including Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in the UK and The Square by Marcus Wareing. He further honed his skills in Singapore and Norway, gaining exposure to Michelin-starred culinary standards before joining Row on 45 in Dubai.
His career progression, from intern to head chef, illustrates a remarkable combination of perseverance, adaptability, and a passion for innovation in a highly competitive industry.
Future Great of the Year: Shaping Tomorrow’s Culinary Leaders
The Future Great of the Year award by Gault & Millau recognizes chefs who demonstrate the potential to shape the future of the culinary industry. Shrestha’s recognition highlights his influence not only in the Middle East but also on the global gastronomy stage.
“This honor reinforces the capability of Nepali chefs to excel on the international culinary platform,” Shrestha said. “It motivates me to continue creating unique dining experiences and mentoring the next generation of chefs.”
Showcasing Nepali Talent on the Global Stage
Shrestha’s achievement also brings international attention to Nepali culinary talent, showcasing how chefs from diverse backgrounds are redefining gastronomic standards worldwide. His leadership at Row on 45 ensures that the restaurant remains at the forefront of Dubai’s fine dining scene, attracting food enthusiasts and maintaining Michelin-level excellence.
By blending tradition with modern innovation, Shrestha exemplifies the growing global presence of Nepali professionals in hospitality, reflecting both technical mastery and creative vision.
As Row on 45 continues to draw diners from around the world, Shrestha’s recognition by Gault & Millau positions him as a rising star in the Middle East’s culinary landscape. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs, reinforcing the message that talent, dedication, and global exposure can propel culinary careers to unprecedented heights.
