Nepali eatery in Queens earns New York Times recognition

In the bustling Jackson Heights neighborhood of Queens, a small Nepali restaurant has achieved a significant milestone, earning a spot on The New York Times' prestigious list of the city's 100 best restaurants. "Bimala Didi ko Bhanchha Ghar," run by Bimala Hamal Shrestha, is more than just an eatery; it has become a cherished symbol of Nepali identity for the diaspora in New York City.

For Hamal, the recognition is a deeply personal validation of her decade-long mission. Since opening in 2015, her driving force has been to preserve and promote authentic Nepali food and its associated culture. "Food and its many varieties not only establish ethnic or regional identity," she stated. "They also introduce a country’s civilization, originality and culture to the world."

Nepali cuisine has steadily gained a foothold in New York over the past decade, with Jackson Heights emerging as a major hub for the Nepali-speaking community. Amidst a competitive culinary landscape, Hamal's restaurant has distinguished itself through its commitment to simplicity and authenticity. Dishes like momo, sel roti, chowmein, and bhutan sukuti are staples, introducing diners to the rich flavors of Nepal. Hamal recalls introducing unfamiliar non-Nepali customers to sel roti, a traditional rice bread, as a gesture to spark curiosity and broaden appreciation for Nepali food.

Beyond its culinary achievements, Hamal is also a respected community figure in Queens, known for her consistent support of social, cultural, and charitable events. The journey has not been easy, but the New York Times recognition marks a proud moment for the restaurant and the Nepali community it represents, showcasing the successful integration and cultural contribution of immigrants in a global city.

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Food and its many varieties not only establish ethnic or regional identity. They also introduce a country’s civilisation, originality and culture to the world.