Bawarchi restaurant, located in Babermahal Revisited, has served numerous customers every day since it opened in 1998. As an iconic establishment set up in the early days of Kathmandu’s dining scene, it played a key role in shaping the valley’s restaurant culture.
Situated within ‘Babermahal Revisited’, a historic complex, it remains popular among diplomats, government officials, business professionals, tourists, and local residents seeking a place to gather with family and friends. The restaurant’s ambience showcases historic craft smanship, with interior design that carries the same heritage, creating an antique atmosphere that continuously attracts patrons.
Bawarchi, which literally translates to a cook or chef, serves food and beverages both on-site and through outdoor catering (ODC). Known for its authentic Nepali and Indian cuisine, Bawarchi is owned by Raj Karan Shrestha as a legacy family business originally established by his father. Today, Raj Karan is revamping this pioneering Kathmandu restaurant with modern touches to cater to the preferences of a new generation.
Bawarchi Katti Rolls, Biryani, Butter Chicken, Kebabs, and Rajma Chawal serve as the signature menu items. The restaurant is continuing to enhance these offerings by introducing new flavours through Indo-Chinese cuisine. “People are increasingly preferring Chinese food as well, which is why we have hired a new chef who worked in China for many years,” said Sagar Bhandari, Managing Director of Bawarchi, who is leading the effort to modernise the restaurant and reintroduce it to customers.
Although Bawarchi has been a multi-cuisine restaurant from the beginning, it is now expanding into delivery partnerships, following broader industry trends. Collaborations with platforms like Foodmandu, Pathao, and Yango allow customers to enjoy Bawarchi’s food at home or in the office. Managing Director Bhandari, a hospitality veteran with 20 years of experience at the government- owned Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi, brings substantial skills and expertise to nurturing the restaurant’s growth.
Bawarchi is focused on increasing restaurant footfall and reconnecting with potential clients through various promotional schemes. The venue can accommodate up to 100 guests at a time based on its seating and operational capacity. “Footfall is crucial for restaurants, even though there is strong potential to optimise sales through delivery options. In-person dining allows guests to experience our service directly, where they are treated like royalty,” Bhandari noted. “We welcome their feedback to continuously refine our service, food, and beverage quality.” The management considers every visiting customer to be a brand ambassador.
While Bawarchi previously expanded into a few chain outlets, the business is currently prioritising a sustainability strategy while exploring new scaling modalities. Alongside updating the interior, reintroducing signature dishes, training staff , and offering sales- based incentives, the restaurant is providing promotions such as two complimentary meals for group bookings of 20 people. While driving sales through delivery platforms and outdoor catering remains a priority, the primary focus continues to be delivering quality food, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere to every dining guest.
Restaurant name: Bawarchi
Location: Babermahal Revisited
Target: High-end and high middle-income customers
Signature food: Nepali, Indian & Chinese cuisine
Services: Food & beverages at restaurant premises, food delivery, out-door catering services
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