Master Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma stands as a beacon of excellence in the culinary world, celebrated for his remarkable ability to reinvent traditional recipes with a modern twist. Known affectionately as the Kebab King, Chef Rajesh's journey is deeply rooted in heritage, passion, and an unwavering commitment to preserving India’s rich gastronomic legacy.

Born into a family where cooking was more than just a profession, Rajesh inherited the flame from his father, Shri Panna Lal Sharma, a legendary chef who served iconic Indian leaders including Mrs. Indira Gandhi, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Shri Gyani Jail Singh. Inspired by this prestigious lineage, Chef Rajesh set out to make his own mark in the culinary world.

Professionally trained at the prestigious Imperial Hotel, he refined his skills in a wide spectrum of international cuisines. His career, now spanning over three decades, has taken him across the globe, from UAE and South Korea to Japan and Hong Kong, and across India’s major cities,  building a repertoire that bridges tradition and innovation.

A proud Gold Medalist Indian Chef, Chef Rajesh is admired for his bold recipe transformations and his ability to turn every dish into an experience. His culinary creations have consistently captured attention, earning him features in leading Indian and international publications like The Telegraph, Khaleej Times, and Skyzine Magazine. His expertise has also graced television screens on platforms such as DD Metro, Zee News, and KBS 1 TV in South Korea.

Beyond traditional media, Chef Rajesh has carved a niche for himself in the digital space. His YouTube presence serves as a culinary classroom for aspiring chefs and food lovers, where his authentic recipes and kitchen tips continue to inspire a growing audience.

Currently, Chef Rajesh works as an independent consultant, offering comprehensive guidance in launching new hotels and restaurants. From curating bespoke menus to training kitchen staff, his consultancy ensures excellence at every stage. Driven by a passion for nurturing young talent, he dedicates his time to mentoring upcoming chefs, shaping the next generation of culinary leaders.

Chef Rajesh’s work beyond Indian borders has become a cultural bridge, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine to audiences worldwide. Whether it’s traditional tandoori fare or modern fusion concepts, his creations celebrate the essence of India in every bite.

Adding another feather to his culinary crown, Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma’s excellence shines through in his unique dishes. One of the most celebrated being his Korean Skewered Mushrooms, a recipe that fuses international flair with Indian ingenuity.

This delicacy is a perfect example of how Chef Rajesh blends technique and taste, elevating simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

 Ingredients:

• 8 fresh Songi mushrooms
  

• 1 lb lean beef, lamb, or goat (as preferred)
  

• 8 tbsp soy sauce
  

• 4 tbsp sugar
  

• 2 tbsp chopped medium green onion
  

• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  

• 2 tbsp sesame salt
  

• ½ tbsp black pepper
  

 How to Make:

1. Cook the mushrooms by boiling them in water.
   

2. Slice both the mushrooms and meat lengthwise into 1/8" thick strips.
   

3. Marinate them together in all the remaining ingredients for at least 2 hours.
   

4. Thread the marinated pieces alternately on skewers.
   

5. Broil until perfectly cooked and aromatic.
   

This simple yet refined dish reflects Chef Rajesh’s philosophy, using honest ingredients, smart technique, and deep tradition to craft global experiences.

With a deep-rooted mission to promote Indian flavors on a global stage, Chef Rajesh Kumar Sharma continues to transform kitchens, palates, and lives, one dish at a time.

For collaborations or inquiries, reach out to Chef Rajesh at chefrajeshkumar1969@gmail.com.

India’s coffee culture is about to get a serious shot of espresso, straight from Italy. Through an exclusive collaboration with the Espresso Academy and Italian Coffee Academy in Florence, globally respected institutions that have shaped the art of coffee for decades, aspiring baristas in India can now access authentic Italian coffee expertise, heritage, and training without crossing borders

The academy offers programs for every skill level. Beginners can start with foundational barista skills, while experienced coffee enthusiasts can advance to Latte Art and Specialty Coffee Masterclasses. Those seeking a full professional pathway can enrol in internationally recognised Diploma Programs designed to meet the highest global standards.

Hands-on learning is the cornerstone of the training. Students work alongside experienced coffee professionals in real café settings, using advanced espresso machines and brewing tools. The curriculum blends practical techniques with international best practices, ensuring graduates are ready to work from day one.

With India’s coffee culture expanding rapidly, especially in Tier II and Tier III cities, demand for skilled baristas is on the rise. Graduates of the academy are prepared for careers in specialty cafés, luxury hotels, cruise lines, or their own entrepreneurial ventures. Every course comes with a globally recognised certification, boosting employability and opening international opportunities.

Since its launch in March 2025, the academy has grown quickly, building a strong alumni network. Many graduates have secured jobs abroad, while others are successfully running cafés in India. Dedicated placement support connects students with leading coffee businesses both locally and overseas.

This Italian-Indian partnership is more than just a training initiative, it’s a movement to raise coffee-making standards in India and give homegrown baristas a competitive edge globally.

About Italian Coffee Academy India:

The academy is led by Mr. Arjun Sethi, whose vision is to connect Italy’s rich coffee tradition with India’s growing café culture. With years of hospitality experience and a passion for coffee education, he ensures students not only learn the craft but excel at it.

 Based in Delhi, Italian Coffee Academy India is affiliated with Espresso Academy in Florence, offering premium coffee education through the Italian Barista Certificate (IBC) program. Students gain expertise in coffee origins, espresso extraction, milk frothing, and latte art, learning on state-of-the-art equipment under expert trainers. Graduates who pass the final exam receive the internationally recognised IBC, opening doors to global opportunities.

Nestled high in the serene hills of Kalimpong, Fortune Resort by ITC Hotels offers guests a seamless blend of nature’s splendour and contemporary hospitality. With panoramic views stretching from snow-capped Himalayan peaks to lush valleys and sprawling tea gardens, the resort is a tranquil sanctuary for those seeking both rejuvenation and inspiration in the Eastern Himalayas.

The property’s thoughtfully designed rooms and suites strike a balance between elegance and warmth. Modern amenities meet classic charm, with large windows framing postcard-worthy landscapes that change with the mountain light from soft morning hues to dramatic sunsets.

Food is an experience in itself at Fortune Resort Kalimpong. The signature restaurants showcase a culinary journey that spans the globe from authentic Himalayan delicacies to refined international fare. Guests can enjoy their meals in stylish indoor dining spaces or opt for scenic outdoor settings where the crisp mountain air elevates every flavour.

Beyond the property, the resort offers an array of curated experiences. Nature lovers can venture into pine-scented forests on guided trails, while culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Kalimpong’s rich heritage through local tours and interactions. For those who simply wish to slow down, the peaceful surroundings offer a perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation.

Fortune Resort Kalimpong is equally adept at hosting intimate getaways and grand celebrations. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family holiday, a wedding, or a corporate retreat, the property’s versatile spaces, personalised service, and breathtaking vistas create an unforgettable setting for every occasion.

With ITC Hotels legendary hospitality as its foundation, every stay here is infused with warmth, attention to detail, and a deep connection to place. At Fortune Resort Kalimpong, every sunrise feels like a painted masterpiece, and every moment lingers long after the journey home.