On August 29, 2025, the College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM) and the Chefs’ Association of Pakistan (CAP) marked a historic moment with the official launch of Pakistani Cuisine Day, which will now be celebrated every year on 20 November.

The launch ceremony began with a warm welcome by Ahmad Shafiq, CEO of COTHM, who received the distinguished guests: Dr. Rick Stephen, Vice President of Worldchefs, Mel Nathan, CEO Executive Chefs Club Australia,  with the vibrant tunes of the COTHM band team.

The Pakistani National Culinary Team actively participated in the event, presenting a wide range of traditional and modern Pakistani dishes that highlighted the country’s culinary diversity. The participating chefs and their signature dishes included:

1. Chef Aisha Mushtaq Mir

   • I. Plate of Pakistan

1. Chef Hooria Javaid

   • I. Shahi Tukra

1. Chef Hamza Malik

   • I. Makhandi Halwa

1. Chef Palwasha Qalandar

   • I. Sindhu Saagar Platter

1. Chef Momin

   • I. Nargisi Kofta

1. Chef Saima Maqbool

   • I. Saag A’La Modern

   • II. Zarda Tapestry

1. Chef Muhammad Umar Chaudhary

   • I. Chappli Kabab Pakora

   • II. Tandoori Salmon

1. Chef Ahsan Khan

   • I. Ludu

   • II. Peeti

   • III. Beef Nehari

1. Chef Amina Firdous

   • I. Kari Pakora with Pratha

   • II. Namkeen Ghosht

1. Chef Taimoor Khan

   • I. Mix Vegetable Handi

   • II. Smoked Beef Masala

The impressive lineup of dishes not only celebrated the richness of Pakistani cuisine but also reflected the chefs’ passion for innovation and presentation.

Chef Raees from the USA supervised the entire activity, ensuring that the event maintained high professional standards and smooth execution.

In addition, Dr. Rick Stephen personally judged all the dishes, offering participants constructive feedback and professional insights to further enhance their culinary skills. His guidance was highly appreciated by the chefs, who valued the opportunity to learn from a world-renowned culinary expert.

Guests and dignitaries admired the efforts of the national culinary team, recognizing their role in bringing Pakistan’s food heritage to the global stage.

At the conclusion of the event, the Pakistani National Culinary Team gathered for a memorable group photo alongside Ahmad Shafiq, CEO of COTHM, Dr. Rick Stephen, Vice President of Worldchefs, and Mel Nathan, CEO Executive Chefs Club Australia. The photograph symbolized not only the successful launch of Pakistani Cuisine Day but also the unity and pride of Pakistan’s culinary fraternity, standing together with international leaders to promote the country’s food heritage on the global stage.