About Us
The Story Behind Roji Nepalese & Indian Cuisine
Rosie’s Nepalese & Indian Cuisine was born from love, loss, and the lifelong dream of one man- Raju Thapa.
Raju came to America in 1999 with a simple but powerful dream: to become a chef. He worked tirelessly, starting as a dishwasher and kitchen helper, then moving up to line cook, traveling from the West Coast to the East. His hard work paid off when he became head chef at The Host, a renowned Indian restaurant in Toronto, where he spent five years refining his craft and creating bold, authentic flavors.
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In 2016, Raju began a new chapter by opening his first restaurant, Amma Roti House in Toronto. His dedication to fresh, organic ingredients and home-style cooking quickly won the hearts of customers. His unique dishes and passion for food caught the attention of CBC News, who shared his inspiring story with the Toronto community.
But Raju’s journey was never a solo one. Alongside him stood his wife, Sunita Thapa, and his devoted team. Among his strongest supporters was his beloved niece, Roji Rana. Roji often shared fresh ideas with Raju, encouraging him to expand his vision beyond Canada and open a restaurant in the United States.
Tragically, Roji was diagnosed with HLH (Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis)- a rare immune disorder where the body attacks itself. After a brave and heartbreaking fight, she passed away in April, leaving an unfillable void in the Thapa family’s hearts.
To honor Roji’s memory and keep her dream alive, Raju decided to take the leap they once dreamed of together. He opened Rosie’s Nepalese & Indian Cuisine in Pittsford, New York - a place where authentic Nepali and Indian flavors come alive with creativity and heart. The restaurant introduces a refreshing fusion of spices and recipes, handcrafted from scratch and inspired by Raju’s decades of culinary experience.
For Raju, this restaurant isn’t just a business. It’s a tribute to Roji’s life, to family, and to the love of sharing culture through food which started Raju’s journey. Each dish carries a story, a memory, and a dream fulfilled.
Rosie’s Nepalese & Indian Cuisine is more than a place to eat- it’s a legacy of passion, resilience, and connection.
Thank you for reading my story - I hope that this helps connect you more to who I am and my food at Rosie’s Nepalese and Indian Cuisine.