Introduction Paragraph:
Nestled amidst the swaying palms and the serene beaches of Goa is a culinary maestro whose journey from the historic city of Aurangabad to the picturesque shores of Goa is a tale of passion, dedication, and an enduring love for gastronomy. Meet the chef who has woven the threads of his simple yet profound upbringing into a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. With a heart that beats for the art of cooking and a spirit ignited by the vibrant fusion of cultures, his culinary quest is a celebration of taste, tradition, and innovation. Embark on a journey through his eyes, as we uncover the essence of his quest to transform dining into a story-telling experience, one plate at a time.
- Tell us a bit about yourself.
I come from Aurangabad, a place that holds great significance in my life. I am a person who appreciates simplicity and places immense value on my family. Following my time in Aurangabad, I pursued my culinary education at IHM Goa, marking the initiation of my culinary journey. My goal is to provide guests with a culinary experience that not only satisfies their palate but also tells a story of cultural fusion and gastronomic exploration.
- What was your childhood ambition?
When I was a kid, I really wanted to be a chef. I loved watching my grandma cook amazing meals, and it made me excited about food. As I got older, I kept working towards my dream of making delicious dishes and sharing them with others. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.
- What inspired you to take up culinary arts as your career choice
I’ve always had a deep-rooted passion for food from a very young age. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my family, and it was during these moments that I discovered the magic of cooking. The ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary fascinated me. I was inspired by the way food has the power to connect people, evoke emotions, and create memorable experiences. This passion and fascination ultimately led me to pursue a career in culinary arts, where I could turn my love for cooking into a lifelong profession.
- Take us through the journey of your career in the hospitality industry. (Provide details like when did the journey begin, how long have you been in this profession, hotels that you have worked at during the course of your career, positions that you have served in at these hotels, etc.)
My culinary journey began when I enrolled at IHM Goa in 2007, setting the stage for my professional aspirations. In 2010, I joined Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa, which marked a significant turning point in my career. During my time there, I had the privilege of refining my culinary skills and gaining invaluable insights into the world of luxury hospitality.
Following this enriching experience, I embarked on an international adventure by joining Plan Hotel Neptune in Zanzibar, Tanzania. This unique opportunity allowed me to explore and immerse myself in diverse global cuisines, expanding my culinary repertoire.
From there, I ventured to Plan Hotel Neptune in Zanzibar, Tanzania, exploring international cuisines. Later, I worked at Grand Hyatt Doha, Qatar, broadening my culinary expertise in a multicultural environment.
Returning to India, I contributed to Hyatt Regency Amritsar and Courtyard by Marriott Amritsar. Now, I am proudly part of The Westin Goa, infusing my culinary knowledge into Goa’s vibrant food scene.
Today, I am thrilled to be a part of The Westin Goa, where I blend my diverse culinary knowledge into the vibrant food scene of Goa. My journey has been marked by an unwavering passion for innovation, dedication to culinary excellence, and a steadfast commitment to delivering extraordinary dining experiences for our guests.
- How has your experience in Goa been so far?
My experience in Goa has been truly rewarding. The blend of rich Indian flavors with Portuguese influences has offered me a diverse palette to work with. Over my time here, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with a dedicated team to craft menus that honor Goa’s culinary heritage while adding a modern twist. The warm hospitality and stunning surroundings have made my journey in Goa both professionally and personally fulfilling. I’m excited to continue exploring and innovating in this vibrant culinary landscape.
- Name a few things about Goa that you appreciate the most.
Certainly, Goa offers a truly exceptional environment for my culinary career. The rich tapestry of cultural influences, a fusion of Indian and Portuguese traditions, provides an endless source of inspiration for crafting unique and flavorful dishes. The abundance of fresh seafood from its coastal location allows me to create exquisite seafood-centric creations. Goa’s local markets and farms provide an array of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients that enhance the authenticity of our dishes. The warm and welcoming nature of the people here fosters a collaborative work environment, while the breathtaking natural beauty of Goa serves as a constant source of inspiration. Lastly, the diverse palate of tourists in this popular destination challenges me to continually innovate and adapt in my culinary offerings, making Goa an ideal place for my culinary journey.
- Name a few Goan dishes which are your favorites.
Fish curry rice, Bibinca and Vindaloo.
- How do you spend your time when you are not working? What kind of activities do you indulge in for recreation and leisure?
During my leisure time, I aim to strike a balance between relaxation and continuing my passion for food. I often experiment with new recipes at home, extending my culinary creativity beyond the professional kitchen. Exploring local food scenes and restaurants is a delightful pastime, helping me stay updated with culinary trends.
I also prioritize outdoor activities like beach walks, hiking, and picnics to connect with nature and find relaxation. Reading is another favorite leisure pursuit, offering both relaxation and inspiration. Traveling and experiencing diverse cuisines enrich my culinary knowledge, while fitness and culinary workshops ensure a healthy and educational balance. Most importantly, spending cherished moments with family and friends is at the heart of my leisure activities, providing joy and rejuvenation.
- An upcoming food related festivals/events at The Westin Goa that people can look forward to?
At The Westin Goa, our primary emphasis lies in providing exceptional culinary experiences to our guests. We do this through a variety of events, including our renowned Sunday Brunches featuring diverse themes that aim to delight guests’ taste buds with dishes originating from various regions and styles. In the upcoming month of October, our guests can anticipate the exciting OktoberFest Sunday Brunch and an exclusive pop-up collaboration with a popular nightclub from Delhi, known as Liar.
- What thought would you like to leave our readers with
I would like to leave readers with the idea that food is not just sustenance but a profound form of expression and connection. It has the power to transcend boundaries, bridge cultures, and create cherished memories. Whether you’re a chef, a home cook, or simply someone who enjoys a good meal, remember that the magic of food lies in the love and care put into its creation and the shared moments it brings.
