But his achievements extend far beyond the Michelin Guide. Chef Rohit’s talent has earned him numerous industry accolades and in 2017 he was selected to represent India at the prestigious World Food India event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi; a testament to the respect he commands on the global culinary stage.

Ask him the secret behind his success and the answer is refreshingly simple: consistency. “Wherever I cook, I want people to experience the same balance of flavour.” He explains: “it’s a reflection of my experience and passion. Whether I’m creating dishes for an intimate restaurant or a luxury five-star hotel, every plate should deliver harmony rather than overpower the palate”.

Maintaining that consistency across an international restaurant portfolio demands an expert understanding of seasonality. Rather than relying solely on imported produce, Chef Rohit builds menus around ingredients when they are at their peak. “Nothing compares to enjoying meat during game season, shellfish in the summer, mangoes picked fresh from the tree during mango season or vegetables grown where they naturally thrive. Nature always produces the best flavours, so I let the seasons guide my menus.”

Behind every successful chef is a talented team and collaboration is central to Chef Rohit’s philosophy. Many of his chefs have worked alongside him for more than a decade, sharing his vision while bringing fresh ideas to the table. “I surround myself with people who are ambitious and passionate about changing the food industry. They understand my style of cooking and together we continue to evolve our menus.”

Despite an extraordinary list of achievements, Chef Rohit remains remarkably humble. His passion for showcasing the richness, diversity and sophistication of Indian cuisine is evident in every dish he creates. Nearly three decades into his career, he continues to push boundaries, proving that the finest Indian food honours tradition while embracing innovation.

Instagram: chefrohitghai
www.rohitghai.com

Blending heritage, innovation and memorable cuisine, Rohit Ghai has put Indian cuisine centre stage at fine-dining restaurants in the UK and across the world. Here are Asiana’s recommendations for where to visit.

Kutir

Prepare to have your notion of a restaurant turned on its head, for Kutir is no ordinary dining establishment. Kutir mean’s ‘cottage’ and that’s exactly where you’ll find yourself, a little rural themed oasis in the heart of trendy Chelsea, inspired by the hunting lodges in the forests and jungles of India which Rohit frequented in the early days of his career.

On the outside it looks like a classic Chelsea townhouse but when you step inside, you’re transported by the elegant interiors that pay homage to India’s abundant wildlife. You can dine inside, or book a table on their outdoor roof terrace garden which is filled with luscious plants, creating a soothing, tranquil spot to eat.

The ‘Restaurant of the Year’ at the British Restaurant awards 2022, is run by Rohit and Abhishake Sangwan and many diners come here to experience their innovative Tasting Menus. Choose from their Signature Expedition which features, mouth-watering meat dishes like Goat, Lamb, Chicken and Venison, the Vegetarian Expedition, a creative culinary adventure with delicious plant-based dishes like cauliflower samosas and broccoli with truffle, or the Seafood Expedition where you can try one of Chef Rohit’s most popular dishes; lobster served with brioche, southern spices and gooseberry. Each Expedition comes with a wine pairing, or for a lighter bite, opt for their A la Carte menu which features grilled dishes from the tandoor.

Kutir, 10 Lincoln Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 2TS
www.kutir.co.uk

Manthan

Drinks are just as important as the food when you’re going for a meal and the drinks menu is what makes Manthan such a special place to dine. Run by Rohit Ghai and Abhishake Sangwan this smart, chic Mayfair eaterie is the place to come for modern Indian cuisine and cocktails.

More than half of the menu is vegetarian but you’ll still find hearty dishes like slow cooked venison and chicken tikka. The meat-free options include a delicious soya chop and vegetable kofta and there’s a choice of Indian street food small plates, served as part of a bar menu. Surprising morsels include artichoke tikki, Rohit’s signature savory Ram Ladoo and masala prawns. One of our favourite aspects of Manthan is their impressive list of lassis and cocktails. You may need to make several trips to try them all.

Manthan, 49 Maddox Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 2PQ
www.manthanmayfair.co.uk

Vatavaran

What makes Indian cuisine some of the most exiting in the world is the breadth of regional dishes that exist. You may think you’ve tried them all, but there’s always a new dish to savour and that’s what makes Vatavaran in Knightsbridge such a pleasure to visit. Many of the spices and herbs in their recipes originate from the Himalayan region of India that you won’t find on regular Indian menus.

Vatavaran is the biggest of Rohit’s London kitchens with the widest range of dishes. There’s even a live grill station where you can watch your food being cooked and an ornate cocktail bar.

The A la Carte menu demonstrates the breath of food options available, including delicacies like jackfruit kebab, scallops with aubergine, duck rogan josh, rotisserie masala fish and truffle biriyani. Tasting menus change seasonally and our favourite is the Mango Season Menu featuring fruity ingredients like raw mango.

The restaurant looks like a beautifully designed living room with blue walls and a velvet seating area, while each dish looks picture perfect. We can’t wait to go back!

Vatavaran, 14-15 Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, London, SW3 1NQ
www.vatavaran.uk

Travel for taste: where to find Rohit’s food around the world

It’s not just the UK where Rohit has made a name for himself as an Indian Masterchef. He heads up kitchens in India, Morocco and previously in Oman, inside some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The newest restaurant in his international portfolio is his new fine-dining launch, Zarqash, at The Ritz-Carlton Bangalore where the focus is South India food and one of the best biriyanis you’ll ever eat in your lifetime.

Or, if you’re in Marrakech, be sure to book a meal at Rivayat located inside the Oberoi hotel. Make the most of the Moroccan sunshine by sitting in the courtyard and tuck into for delicious delicacies like lobster idli with sambal.