A Journey of Heritage, Innovation and Excellence

From Punjab to the Michelin Stage

A Punjabi boy at heart who loved his mother’s Aloo parathas, grew up to be a globally celebrated Michelin-starred Chef. 

Chef Rohit Ghai is the first Indian chef to earn a Michelin star for Jamavar, London, achieving this milestone within just a year of its opening. Recognized as one of the most celebrated names in modern Indian cuisine, he has built a stellar reputation over more than a decade in London’s dining scene.

The Foundations of a Culinary Journey

Originally from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Chef Ghai’s passion for cooking was inspired by his mother, who taught him that food made with heart and soul needs no special ingredients. His culinary journey began with formal training in Indian cuisine at the Institute of Hotel Management, New Delhi, followed by hands-on experience at The Taj and The Oberoi Hotels. In 2008, he moved to London, where he went on to work with acclaimed restaurants including Benares, Trishna, Gymkhana, Hoppers, and Bombay Bustle.

A Vision Beyond Borders

Known for seamlessly marrying heritage with innovation, Chef Ghai continues to create dishes that are both soulful and contemporary, bringing the richness of Indian cuisine to the global stage.

Following the successful launch of Jamavar in 2016, he opened his first standalone restaurant, Kutir in Chelsea, in 2018. Celebrated for its refined yet deeply personal approach to Indian dining, Kutir quickly earned critical acclaim for its storytelling through cuisine.

Building a Global Culinary Legacy

Chef Ghai’s growing portfolio reflects his ambition to showcase Indian cuisine across cultures and continents. Following Kutir, he launched Manthan in London’s Mayfair, Ishka 360 in Doha, Aangan in Muscat, Gup & Shup in Dubai, Rivayat at The Oberoi Marrakech, and most recently, Vatavaran in Knightsbridge, London.

Alongside his restaurant ventures, he published his first cookbook, Tarkari, in 2021—a celebration of vegetarian and vegan Indian cuisine that highlights the depth and diversity of plant-based traditions. In 2025, he released Yatra, a culinary exploration of India that captures regional flavours, personal memories, and the stories that have shaped his journey.

Chef Ghai has also collaborated on several prestigious gastronomic events across the United Kingdom, including his role as an Audi Chef Ambassador.