The Kilroys of Kathmandu Journal
Stories, recipes, and reflections from Thomas and Arati Kilroy, founders of Kilroy’s of Kathmandu restaurant. Here we explore Nepali food, hospitality, and the experiences that shaped what was once a secret oasis in the heart of the city.
In protecting a culinary heritage we’re proud of, we’re also imagining what’s possible in this next chapter. Some entries revisit moments from the past. Others explore food, culture, and the everyday rhythm of life in Kathmandu.
Join us as we share insights and reflections, and retrace our way back to this magical land nestled in the Himalayas – a place we like to think of as home.
Namaste and welcome 🙏
🌐 Published from the United Kingdom, inspired by Nepal
Onto the stories…
Cooking for the Everest generation
Chef Thomas Kilroy reflects on cooking for Sir Edmund Hillary at the British Embassy in Kathmandu and how Kilroys of Kathmandu quietly became a gathering place for the Everest climbing community.
The night I met Arati
A Valentine’s Eve party at Kilroy’s of Kathmandu. A simple request to speak to the chef. What followed was an unexpected meeting that would change the lives of Thomas and Arati Kilroy forever.
The oasis you had to discover
Kilroy’s of Kathmandu became known as a secret oasis in the heart of the city - a candlelit garden restaurant discovered beyond the bustle of Thamel where guests slowed down, shared stories, and stayed longer than planned
Coming home to an idea that never left
Kilroy’s became many things to many people. A meeting place. A refuge after a trek. Somewhere for first dates, long lunches, late nights, and chance encounters. A place where strangers became familiar, and familiar faces felt like friends. It also became the backdrop to my own life in ways I couldn’t possibly have predicted at the time.
It was there that I met Arati…