Naomi Sherpa crowned first-ever ‘Chef Master Sikkim 2025’ champion at historic culinary finale

The grand finale of the inaugural Chef Master Sikkim 2025 was held on June 20 at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Rumtek, drawing chefs, food enthusiasts, and dignitaries from across the state. The event marked a significant milestone as the first state-level cooking competition of its kind, aimed at showcasing and nurturing Sikkim’s rich gastronomic culture.

Gracing the occasion were Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia, Chairperson of SIMFET, and Pema Lama, Counselor of Tathangchen, who praised the platform for giving aspiring chefs an opportunity to shine on a professional stage.

The journey began with 50 contestants from various corners of Sikkim, who underwent a series of rigorous rounds designed to test not only their technical skills but also creativity, presentation, and knowledge of local ingredients. After several elimination stages, five exceptional finalists advanced to the grand finale, where they were tasked with creating signature dishes that reflected innovation and cultural depth.

Naomi Sherpa, hailing from Sombaray, was crowned the winner of Chef Master Sikkim 2025. Her unique fusion of traditional Sikkimese flavors with modern culinary techniques wowed the judges and secured her the top spot.

Milan Basnet from Phung (Namthang) earned the first runner-up title, praised for his precision and bold flavor combinations. Meanwhile, Sarina Pradhan from Metro Tadong Se claimed the second runner-up position for her refined plating and well-balanced dishes.

Speaking at the event, Chairperson Tenzing Dorjee Bhutia said, “Chef Master Sikkim is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of our identity, our kitchens, and the stories we carry through food. We hope to see more such platforms in the future.”