Chef Santosh Shah launches Janakpur Fish House in Naxal

Kathmandu, July 2

BBC Master Chef Santosh Shah has launched the traditional fish cuisine of Janakpur in his new restaurant ‘Janakpur Fish House’ in Naxal, Kathmandu.

The restaurant offers an authentic taste, style, and dishes of Janakpur, giving food lovers a chance to enjoy the region’s original culinary flavours in the heart of the capital, Shah informed in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, the Fish House aims to serve fish in its traditional style- pan-fried on a thick griddle using yellow mustard oil-preserving the unique and indigenous flavour of Janakpur. The restaurant features an open kitchen concept and offers live fish options for customers.

Chef Santosh has collaborated with his brother, Chef Dilip Shah, to bring this concept to life. Chef Dilip, who introduced Santosh to the hospitality industry, brings over 35 years of experience working in the hospitality sectors of Nepal, India, and Central America.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the venture, Chef Dilip says, “Just like grilled meat sold by the kilogram has become popular in Kathmandu, we aim to create a similar culture with fish. We are trying to recreate the taste and experience of eating fish the way it's traditionally done in Janakpur.”

The menu at Janakpur Fish House features around 10 varieties of fish dishes. The signature Tawa Fish will be served with Janakpuri murai (puffed rice) and radish pickle. Other offerings include trout, prawns, fish chili, and a special fish set—all prepared in the traditional Mithila and Janakpur culinary style.

Chef Santosh also mentions that a variety of beverages are available at reasonable prices. His previously launched ‘Mithila Thali’ has already gained popularity across the country. The Mithila Thali now has branches in Janakpur and several locations in Kathmandu, including Naxal, Gairidhara, Gaushala, and Jhamsikhel.

“My mission is to promote cuisine from the Tarai region while within Nepal, and represent broader Nepali food when abroad,” said Chef Santosh. “This initiative is an example of cross-promotion, aiming to bring the rich flavours of Mithila and Janakpur to Kathmandu.”

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 3 July 2025.