Exclusive Interview | Kitchen Chronicles: Insights into a Culinary Director’s Leadership Philosophy and Cooking Artistry

Admin

Published on October 1, 2023

In this exclusive interview, we indulge into the captivating world of epicurean artistry with a Culinary Director, whose path from childhood inspiration to professional brilliance is a remarkable narrative.

Ajeet Janardhanan, currently serving as the Culinary Director at The Residency Towers since April 2022, brings over a decade of extensive culinary expertise to the table. With a culinary journey that spans various prestigious establishments, including a noteworthy seven-year stint as Executive Chef at The Residency Towers, he has consistently demonstrated his culinary prowess and leadership. Prior to joining The Residency Towers, Ajeet honed his culinary skills at CGH Earth for a total of 11 years, where he served in various capacities, including Executive Chef and Senior Sous Chef. He also gained invaluable experience during his time with Carnival Cruise Lines, further enriching his culinary repertoire. Ajeet's remarkable culinary career has been marked by dedication and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences.

How did you discover your passion for cooking, and what inspired you to become a chef?

Food is a deeply personal thing, and for me, my passion for it began as a child. I was an only child, and I would always sit with my mother while she cooked. I learnt from her and absorbed her love of food. As I grew up, I realized that food was something I wanted to pursue as a profession. I had a choice between hotel management and engineering, and I chose hotel management because I couldn't handle the intense math involved in engineering. Laughs. Cooking is my passion, and I'm grateful that I chose this profession. It allows me to share my love of food with others and bring joy to their lives.

Can you describe a favorite childhood dish or cooking memory that sparked your interest in the culinary world?

To this day, one of my favorite dishes is my mother's fish curry. She makes it in an old pot that my grandmother used to use, and it's simply the best. She uses fresh fish from the market, kokum, and chili powder, but there's something else that makes her curry so special. I think it's the love and affection she puts into it. I've tried to recreate her recipe in my own kitchen, but I've never been able to get it quite right. I guess there's no substitute for a mother's touch.

How do you handle feedback and criticism from guests or food critics, and how has this feedback contributed to your growth as a chef?

Feedback is essential in any creative field, and cooking is no exception. However, food is a highly subjective experience. The same dish that one person loves may be disliked by another. This is because our food preferences are shaped by our individual experiences, cultures, and emotions. As a chef, it is important to understand that not all feedback is created equal. Some feedback may be arbitrary or unhelpful. For example, if a customer says "there is not enough variety" without providing any specific suggestions, it is difficult to know how to improve. On the other hand, if a customer says "the biryani is too dry and there are too many cloves, cardamom, and bay leaves," this is specific and actionable feedback. When receiving feedback, it is important to take a step back and consider it carefully. If you agree with the feedback, ask yourself how you can implement it in a way that is consistent with your style and philosophy. If you disagree with the feedback, it is okay to stand your ground. However, it is also important to be open to the possibility that you could be wrong. Ultimately, the goal is to use feedback to improve your cooking and provide your guests with the best possible experience. This is a delicate balance, but it is one that chefs learn to master with experience.

In your opinion, what makes a meal truly special beyond just the flavors?

From the guest's perspective, the entire dining experience matters. From the moment they enter the restaurant, they should be greeted with a warm smile. The food should be delicious and flavorful, and the server should be attentive and friendly. If the guest has a request, the server should listen carefully and do their best to fulfill it. Even small details like the cleanliness of the restaurant and the appearance of the tables can make a difference. In short, the guest dining experience is a complex mix of factors, both large and small. By paying attention to all of these details, restaurants can create a truly memorable and enjoyable experience for their guests.

Can you share your approach to managing and leading a kitchen team, including your strategies for staff training, development, and retention?

One of my key principles is that I don't micromanage. I believe that my team members are adults with experience, and I trust them to make their own decisions. My job is to guide them and ensure that they have the product knowledge and skills they need to deliver what we promise our guests. It is also very important to me that I treat my staff fairly and with respect. When they feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to give their best to their jobs. This is important because the emotional well-being of the team can directly affect the quality of the food. For example, if a chef is having a bad day, they may not be able to focus on their work, and this could result in a dish that is not up to standard. I believe that by treating my staff with respect and ensuring their emotional well-being, I can create a positive and productive work environment where everyone is motivated to do their best. This results in better food and a better dining experience for our guests.

What are the most popular dishes at The Residency Towers that guests frequently rave about?

I'm excited to tell you about Sky Restaurant, where we are sitting right now. It's a curated Asian dining experience, and we have some beautiful dishes on the menu. One of our most popular dishes is the Blue Orchid Maki. It's a sushi roll made with blue orchid flower, and it's absolutely delicious. Another popular dish is the Black Garlic Chicken Tikka. The chicken is marinated in black garlic, which has a unique flavor and aroma. For dessert, we have a wonderful Namelaka. It's a Japanese version of a chocolate mousse, and it's incredibly smooth and rich. In addition to our Asian menu, we also offer a variety of global comfort food for travelers here in our Main Street. Popular items include Thayir Sadham (yogurt rice) and Sambar Rice. Our room service menus also feature a wide selection of comfort food items, as well as cake and shaped cakes.

We're confident that you'll find something to your taste at Sky Restaurant. Come and see us soon!

This interview is exclusively published on Hospitalitynews.in.

Strategic Growth in India’s Evolving Hospitality Landscape

Mr. Jayant Singh

Published on April 1, 2026

In an exclusive and insightful interaction, we bring you a compelling conversation with a leader who has consistently challenged the norms of Indian hospitality. Featured in our latest edition, Mr. Jayant Singh, Managing Partner of TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts, shares his journey, vision, and the philosophy that continues to shape one of India’s most distinctive hotel brands.

At a time when most hotel chains focused their growth on metropolitan cities, Mr. Singh chose a different path, one that looked towards the India that was often overlooked. In this featured article, he reflects on the early insight that led to the creation of TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts, and how that vision has evolved into a multi-brand platform catering to diverse traveller segments across the country.

From its beginnings in 2007 to becoming a network of over 500 keys across 17 operational properties, the brand’s growth story is rooted in a simple yet powerful idea: delivering reliable, comfortable, and heartfelt hospitality in emerging destinations. As he explains, the core philosophy of “Service Dil-Se” remains unchanged, even as the brand expands its architecture across economy, midscale, and upscale offerings.

As the conversation unfolds, Mr. Singh offers a candid perspective on the dynamics of Tier II and Tier III markets, highlighting the growing demand driven by domestic travel and infrastructure development, alongside the gap in professionally managed supply. His insights reveal the strategic advantage of being an early mover, building strong local relationships and establishing brand trust in evolving markets.

He also delves into the realities of managing multiple brands without overlap, maintaining consistency through strong operational frameworks, and fostering meaningful partnerships with property owners. Equally important is his honest take on the industry’s talent challenges, emphasising the need for stronger career pathways and continued investment in people.

Looking ahead, his focus remains on thoughtful expansion and strengthening presence across emerging destinations, while staying aligned with the changing expectations of the Indian traveller.

It is, without doubt, a rich and engaging conversation that captures both the journey and the future of India-first hospitality. To read the complete interview and explore deeper insights, readers can access the full feature in the HospitalityNews April magazine, available on our website and in print.

Inside Alivaa’s Bold Vision for India’s Hospitality Future

Vikramjit Singh and Akash Bhatia

Published on April 1, 2026

In an exclusive and compelling interaction, we bring you a powerful conversation with two industry leaders who are quietly but confidently reshaping the narrative of Indian hospitality. Featured in our Insiders Talk section, Vikramjit Singh and Akash Bhatia of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts share perspectives that reflect not just experience, but intent, resilience, and a forward-looking vision.

At a time when the hospitality sector stands at a critical inflection point, conversations like these offer rare insight into what truly drives transformation. In this featured article, both leaders open up about their journeys, the lessons that shaped them, and the bold decisions that led to the creation of a brand built for tomorrow.

There is a distinct depth to their reflections, whether it is Singh’s decision to step into entrepreneurship at a defining moment for the industry, or his observations on the evolving mindset of the post-pandemic traveller. From trust and hygiene becoming decisive factors to the growing appetite for new destinations, his insights capture the pulse of a rapidly changing market.

Bhatia, on the other hand, brings a strategic lens to the conversation, detailing how ALIVAA is building a disruptive, asset-light ecosystem while maintaining strong brand identity across segments. His thoughts on “intuitive care,” consistency at scale, and the importance of empowered teams reveal the philosophy that underpins the brand’s growth.

As the discussion unfolds, themes of technology, leadership, and adaptability take centre stage. From AI-driven revenue management to unified guest experiences, and from leading multicultural teams to building agile organisations, every response adds a new layer to understanding modern hospitality leadership.

What makes this interaction particularly engaging is the honesty and clarity with which both leaders speak, not just about success, but about the realities of building something meaningful in a competitive landscape.

It is, without doubt, an insightful and enriching conversation that reflects the spirit of reinvention in Indian hospitality. To explore the complete interview and gain deeper perspectives, readers can access the full feature in the Hospitality News April magazine, available on our website and in print.

A Conversation That Redefines Skill-Based Education in India

R. Boomee Nathan

Published on April 1, 2026

In an exclusive and thought-provoking interaction, we bring you insights from one of the most influential voices shaping skill-based education in India today. Featured in our latest edition, R. Boomee naathan, Founder and Chairman of Chennais Amirta Group of Institutions, opens up on the philosophy, milestones, and vision that continue to define his institution’s journey.

At a time when the hospitality and aviation sectors are evolving rapidly, conversations like these offer rare clarity. Through this featured article, Mr. Boomeenaathan shares perspectives that go beyond conventional education, touching upon transformation, employability, and the larger purpose of learning. His journey, rooted in the idea of creating opportunities, reflects in every answer, making this an interview that is both insightful and inspiring.

From building a multi-disciplinary institution to redefining practical learning through the “Earn While You Learn” model, he highlights how real-world exposure is shaping confident professionals even before they graduate. What stands out is his belief that education is not just about degrees, but about creating a life-changing ecosystem that impacts families and communities.

As the conversation unfolds, he speaks about what truly differentiates a Chennais Amirta graduate industry readiness from day one. With infrastructure that mirrors real-world environments and a strong focus on discipline, adaptability, and global standards, the institution has consistently delivered professionals who stand out across industries.

The discussion also brings to light powerful real-life transformations, global achievements like the Culinary Olympics, and the strategic expansion into aviation and nursing, sectors united by service excellence and human care. Each insight builds a deeper understanding of how integrated learning is becoming the future.

Towards the end, Mr. Boomeenaathan shares his vision of positioning Chennais Amirta as a global hub for skill-based education, powered by technology, international collaborations, and a strong placement network.

It is, without doubt, a compelling and enriching conversation that reflects both purpose and progress. To experience the complete interview and deeper insights, readers can explore the full feature in the Hospitality News April magazine, available on our website, and in print.