Founder Editor Team
Meet the Woman Putting Sikkimese Flavors on India’s Culinary Map
In the vibrant hills of Sikkim, where tradition meets taste, Sonam Choden Bhutia is making waves as a young entrepreneur with a mission: to bring authentic Sikkimese cuisine to the forefront of India’s food scene. As the founder of Taste Bud Sikkim, Sonam is not just running a business—she is preserving culture, empowering communities, and redefining the way the world sees northeastern cuisine.
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The Journey Begins
Born and raised in Sikkim, Sonam grew up immersed in the region’s diverse culinary traditions. Her love for food was nurtured at home, where traditional recipes were passed down through generations. But it was only after exploring the limited representation of northeastern food in mainstream Indian markets that she saw a gap—and an opportunity.
With a background in hospitality and an entrepreneurial spirit, Sonam launched Taste Bud Sikkim, a venture dedicated to showcasing the rich and often underrepresented food culture of her home state. Her brand offers a variety of ready-to-eat products, homemade condiments, and traditional delicacies, all made from locally sourced ingredients and rooted in authenticity.
Taste Bud Sikkim: A Brand with a Mission
Taste Bud Sikkim is more than just a food brand—it’s a cultural movement. From fermented bamboo shoot pickles to churpi (hardened yak cheese) and gundruk (fermented leafy greens), the brand curates flavors that are unique to the Himalayan region. Each product tells a story, representing the heritage, identity, and resilience of the people of Sikkim.
Sonam’s venture also champions sustainability and community empowerment. She actively works with local farmers, artisans, and women’s self-help groups to source ingredients and create employment opportunities. This grassroots approach ensures that the brand not only preserves traditional flavors but also supports livelihoods in rural Sikkim.
Recognition and Impact
Since its inception, Taste Bud Sikkim has gained a loyal customer base and caught the attention of foodies, influencers, and cultural enthusiasts across India. Sonam has participated in food festivals, entrepreneurship conclaves, and women-led startup events, where she’s been recognized for her innovation and commitment to indigenous cuisine.
Her work is helping break stereotypes about northeastern food and encouraging a wider audience to embrace the unique taste and nutrition of Sikkimese ingredients. Through her storytelling, packaging, and digital presence, Sonam is making Sikkimese food more accessible, appealing, and relevant in modern kitchens.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a woman entrepreneur from the Northeast, Sonam Choden Bhutia is an inspiring role model for aspiring changemakers in the region. Her journey highlights the importance of local innovation, cultural pride, and resilient entrepreneurship. She continues to expand Taste Bud Sikkim’s product line and reach, with hopes of exporting to international markets in the near future.
Final Thoughts
Sonam Choden Bhutia’s Taste Bud Sikkim is a shining example of how food can be a powerful bridge between culture and commerce. Through her passion and perseverance, she is not only introducing the world to the authentic flavors of Sikkim but also creating lasting impact in her community—one bite at a time.
