Speaker: Bikram Vaidya, Chef/ Educator/ Author

Nepali food is deeply linked to the land and reflects how people, nature, and tradition work together. The Mystic Kitchens of Nepal is a tribute to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Nepal's culinary heritage into a harmonious and mystical cuisine. Covering ancient Ayurvedic principles to the influence of migration, the author has created a travel narrative and comprehensive cookbook based on over 15 years of research, travel, and trekking through Nepal. Author Bikram Vaidya not only traversed the country but also lived with local communities, documenting their oral stories and culinary traditions. Join First Saturday PDX and Northwest China Council as Chef Bikram Vaidya explores how Nepali food connects to history, geography, culture, migration, and sustainability, from the Himalayas to the Tarai, and from the East to the West. 

Bikram Vaidya is a chef, educator, and author of The Mystic Kitchens of Nepal. He is a native from Kathmandu, descendant from generations of royal physicians in a family with deep roots in Ayurveda and Nepalese food traditions who were the official healers for the royal family of Nepal. Chef Vaidya has taught culinary arts for over 20 years, including at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts (Western Culinary Institute) and the Oregon Culinary Institute. His book has recently been nominated for the Gourmand International Cookbook Award. His mission is to preserve and share Nepal's rich culinary heritage as well as the healing power of food, with the world.

Free and open to the public. Followed by a no-host, casual, family-style Nepali lunch with the speaker. Please register for this event at www.FirstSaturdayPDX.org