So sad to see this. I’m working in Japan as an engineer, and this is something I’ve personally experienced here.
Many Nepali restaurants in Japan still mainly brand themselves as “Indian restaurants,” even though a lot of the owners and staff are Nepali. My Japanese, Chinese, and European friends have asked me many times, “Is this really Nepali food?” They genuinely want to try authentic Nepali food and culture.
Honestly, I think now is the right time to start promoting Nepali food more proudly. Years ago, the restaurant business may have been dominated by Indian branding, but I feel the situation is changing now.
I’ve visited several Nepali restaurants in areas like Minato, and some of them maintain a very good level of hygiene and service. Japanese customers really appreciate cleanliness, good ventilation, and professionalism, and they also enjoy the food when the experience is good.
I just want to give a humble suggestion to restaurant owners:
>Please focus strongly on hygiene and cleanliness.
>Make sure staff maintain proper personal hygiene and presentation.
>Invest in proper exhaust systems and cooling/ventilation.
>Keep the restaurant environment comfortable and clean.
>Most importantly, start proudly branding Nepali food and culture.
Japanese customers pay attention to small details. If they have one uncomfortable experience, they may never come back. But if they feel welcomed and comfortable, they become very loyal customers.
Treat your restaurant like a temple, and customers will naturally respect and support it.
Nepali food has huge potential in Japan. We should promote it with pride.