National Geographic features ‘Mithila Thali’ as one of the finest

KATHMANDU: National Geographic Magazine has featured Mithila Thali, calling it one of the finest local cuisines in South Asia, and highlighting the work of renowned Nepali chef Santosh Shah, whose culinary innovation has brought global attention to Nepal’s traditional food culture.

According to National Geographic’s report, Mithila Thali currently serves more than 500 customers daily in southern Nepali town of Janakpur. The magazine notes that Chef Santosh’s approach—blending local ingredients, authentic home-style flavors, and traditional cooking methods with a modern presentation—is a clear reflection of the growing international popularity of Nepali cuisine in the global food and hospitality industry.

Reacting to the international recognition, Chef Santosh Shah expressed his happiness and pride.

“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.

Introducing Nepali food to the global stage

Chef Santosh emphasized that maintaining high quality standards is essential to introducing Nepali food to the global stage. He added that he remains committed to continued hard work and innovation to further promote Nepal’s culinary heritage worldwide, positioning Nepali cuisine within the global gastronomy, food tourism, and cultural tourism markets.

The magazine also describes Janakpur as a city rich in religious significance, cultural heritage, and culinary traditions. It highlights the grandeur of the Janaki Temple, its artistic architecture, and the vibrant presence of pilgrims, praising Janakpur as a growing destination for spiritual tourism, cultural travel, and food tourism in South Asia.

In the feature, Mithila cuisine is presented as one of South Asia’s finest traditional food traditions. Previously, Lonely Planet, an international travel magazine, had also listed Janakpurdham as an emerging destination for cultural, religious, and food tourism, reinforcing Nepal’s rising profile in global travel and tourism rankings.

Chef Santosh Shah, who grew up in Karjhana village of Siraha district,  has expanded Mithila Thali beyond Janakpur. Under the brand “Mithila Thali by Santosh Shah,” vegetarian Mithila Thali restaurants are currently operating in Jhamsikhel (Lalitpur) and Naxal and Gaushala (Kathmandu). Additionally, to introduce visitors to the authentic taste of Janakpur-style fish cuisine, he is also operating Janakpur Fish House in Naxal, Kathmandu.

Looking ahead, Chef Santosh revealed plans to open a new Mithila Thali restaurant in Birgunj within the next few months, further expanding the footprint of Nepal’s indigenous cuisine in the domestic and regional food market.

Santosh first appeared on the UK’s reality cookery TV series in 2020. He was runner-up in the series and was dubbed as the "People’s Champion.

In 2021, Santosh competed in MasterChef: The Professionals re-match, where he was declared the winner.