La Marvella's Culinary Edge: Chef Rajendran Discusses Diverse Cuisines and Teamwork

Admin

Published on December 8, 2023

Executive Chef Vignesh Rajendran of La Marvella, Bengaluru, boasts over two decades in the culinary world, leading 28 chefs and 10 kitchen assistants. He specializes in multi-cuisine menus, excelling in dishes ranging from South Indian dosas to Continental cuisines. Known for his high standards in recipes, presentation, and portion control, Chef Rajendran ensures exceptional dining experiences. His career, starting as a Commis at Hotel Savera, Chennai, includes roles at One&Only Reethi Rah, Atlantis Resorts, and as Executive Sous Chef at The Chancery Group. His commitment to culinary excellence is evident in his collaborations with international chefs and in crafting diverse, memorable cuisines.

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Executive Chef Vignesh Rajendran from La Marvella, Bangalore, shared his insights on various aspects of the culinary experience at the hotel. Discussing La Marvella's diverse food offerings and his personal experience with various cuisines, Chef Rajendran stated:

"At La Marvella, our culinary offerings extend beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing a diverse array of cuisines that seamlessly blend the traditional with the contemporary. While we take pride in presenting authentic and time-honored dishes, our commitment to innovation is evident in our exploration of contemporary culinary expressions. Within the rich history of South Indian cuisine, we explore the distinctive flavors of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Bangalore, and Andhra Pradesh. Each regional cuisine is meticulously crafted to showcase its unique culinary heritage, offering our guests a culinary journey through the southern part of India. In addition to our exploration of South Indian delights, we bring the essence of North Indian cuisine to our tables with the artful preparation of tandoor dishes. Renowned for its roots in traditional North Indian cooking, our tandoor section stands out as a pinnacle of fine dining within our hotel. The meticulous preparation and presentation of tandoori dishes have earned them not only a place on our menu but also the heartfelt appreciation of our discerning guests. My culinary journey at La Marvella began with a specialization in South Indian cooking, focusing on the intricacies and flavors unique to the region. Over the years, I have expanded my expertise to include contemporary South Indian cuisine, adding a modern twist to the traditional fare. This journey has endowed me with a wealth of experience in curating diverse and delectable menus that come as naturally as savoring a fine meal. In essence, our culinary repertoire at La Marvella is a reflection of our passion for offering a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, where each dish tells a story of culinary craftsmanship and dedication to creating an exceptional dining experience."

When asked about fostering teamwork among his culinary staff for a smooth and efficient kitchen operation, Chef Rajendran elaborated:

"Conveying the nuances of our culinary philosophy to the chefs under my guidance is a significant responsibility. It's imperative for them to not only understand the 'what' and 'how' of their tasks but also the 'why.' Stepping into a restaurant signifies entering a unique atmosphere, distinct from the bustling kitchen. To bridge this gap, we provide one-on-one training, urging our kitchen team to experience dining in the restaurant themselves. As chefs, it's crucial for them to grasp the guest's perspective. Dining in the restaurant offers insights into guest expectations, a key element in our service. This immersive training ensures that the kitchen staff becomes an integral part of the overall dining experience. Mere verbal instructions like reducing spice levels won't suffice. We emphasize that the kitchen staff needs to comprehend the commitment made by the service team regarding spice levels, ingredients, and other specific preferences. To facilitate this understanding, we implement cross-training, ensuring that both kitchen and service staff are well-versed in each other's domains. Motivation plays a pivotal role in driving this collaborative approach, inspiring our team to embrace a holistic understanding of the entire culinary process."

This conversation with Chef Rajendran offered a fascinating look into the meticulous culinary operations and the teamwork ethos at La Marvella. For a more in-depth exploration of these insights, viewers can watch the complete interview on the Hospitality News YouTube channel.

The full details of this engaging discussion are also available in the December issue of Hospitality News, accessible through our website.


Strategic Growth in India’s Evolving Hospitality Landscape

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

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

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.