I recently photographed Chef Rajesh Pathak in Tampa, Florida for his on-air introduction on Beat Bobby Flay for Food Network. The shoot took place at his restaurant, Gorkhali Kitchen, and was approached as a documentary, day-in-the-life style session. We focused on capturing Rajesh naturally at work—cooking, prepping, plating, and moving through the rhythms of service—along with a series of relaxed, editorial portraits that reflect his confidence and presence in the kitchen.
Born and raised on his family’s farm in Kathmandu, Nepal, Chef Rajesh Pathak discovered his love for cooking at a young age, learning traditional Nepalese dishes alongside his mother before eventually coming to the United States to pursue both business studies and kitchen experience. After a decade in the tech industry, he opened Gorkhali Kitchen in Tampa in 2022, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand designation and local acclaim for serving the same soulful Nepalese recipes he grew up with—proving that patience, perseverance, and big dreams really do pay off.
The photography included portraits, food photography, and restaurant imagery, all centered on his Indian cuisine and hands-on process in Tampa. During the shoot, Rajesh prepared Chicken Momo, Goat Biryani, Jackfruit Curry, Garlic Naan, and a traditional Thali, each photographed with an emphasis on texture, color, and craftsmanship. It was a rewarding day of storytelling through food, highlighting both the artistry behind the dishes and the personality of the chef as he steps onto the national stage.
