Chef Himanshu Pandey: Rooted in Tradition, Rising on the Global Stage

Chef Himanshu Pandey: Rooted in Tradition, Rising on the Global Stage

By Author

Published on June 6, 2025

Few chefs strike the perfect chord between heritage and innovation in today's evolving culinary world. But Chef Himanshu Pandey does just that—effortlessly. A name that has become synonymous with refined Indian cuisine abroad, Chef Himanshu is currently leading the charge as Executive Chef at RAA NYC, where each dish he curates is not merely food—it’s an immersive cultural experience.

With a career spanning over 17 years across India, the Middle East, and the United States, Chef Himanshu is known not just for his culinary brilliance but for the stories he tells through every plate. A certified Professional Member of the Indian Culinary Forum, endorsed by the World Association of Chefs Societies, and holder of the RRCS Certificate for Culinary Excellence, his accolades speak volumes about the depth of his skill and global standing.

A Modern Take on Indian Classics

Chef Himanshu’s signature style is best described as contemporary Indian with soul. Dishes like Bajre Ki Raab, Sunhara Paneer Tikka, and the decadent Black Jalebi with Gulab Ki Kheer are more than innovative—they're deeply rooted in history, culture, and memory. His passion for pre-plated Indian cuisine has transformed traditional flavours into fine-dining masterpieces that resonate with diners from New Delhi to New York.

Beyond the kitchen, he’s played a pivotal role in building culinary teams, designing SOPs, and instilling a culture of creative discipline and compassion in every workplace he’s been part of. Honours such as India’s F&B Masters Winner, Marriott’s Unsung Hero, and Radisson’s Brand Ambassador of Culture further underscore his contributions to the industry.

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From the Hills of Uttarakhand to NYC’s Skyline

Chef Himanshu’s culinary ethos is deeply influenced by his roots in Uttarakhand—a region nestled in the Himalayas, often overlooked in mainstream Indian cuisine.

“Growing up in the hills, food wasn’t just sustenance—it was a celebration of simplicity, sustainability, and seasonality,” he says.

In every kitchen he leads, from five-star hotels to high-end NYC restaurants, he carries a piece of the hills with him. Foraging, minimal waste cooking, and honouring native ingredients are values instilled in him from a young age—values he now brings to an international stage.

A Taste of Heritage: "Jhangora Ki Kheer"

As part of his mission to share the flavours of his homeland, Chef Himanshu introduces us to Jhangora Ki Kheer, a comforting millet pudding native to Uttarakhand, often prepared during festivals and fasts.

“This dish reminds me of chilly winter mornings in the hills. It was more than dessert—it was breakfast, warmth, and love in a bowl,” he reminisces.

Recipe Snapshot:

  • Main Ingredient: Barnyard Millet (Jhangora)
  • Flavour Profile: Creamy, spiced with cardamom, garnished with saffron and dry fruits
  • Health Note: Gluten-free, rich in fibre, and naturally nourishing

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His grandmother’s wisdom remains the silent secret behind the flavour:

“She didn’t teach from books—she taught from the soul. No measurements, just instinct. No shortcuts, just care.”

From Plate to Page: A New Chapter Begins

Continuing his journey of storytelling through food, Chef Himanshu is now working on his debut culinary memoir and recipe book—a deeply personal project that weaves together his childhood memories, culinary experiments, and signature creations into one rich, flavorful narrative. Details of the book will be revealed soon, promising an immersive exploration into the life of a chef who went from the streets of India to the skyline of NYC—guided by taste, tradition, and tenacity.

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Legacy in Every Bite

In an era where chefs often chase trends, Chef Himanshu stands out for redefining Indian cuisine without losing its soul. He believes that true innovation begins with understanding one’s roots. His journey from a village in Uttarakhand to New York City is a message to chefs everywhere:

Stay rooted. Keep evolving. Let your plate do the talking.


Connect with Chef Himanshu Pandey

Instagram: @hanshu1377
LinkedIn: Chef Himanshu Pandey


Danish Chaudhary Appointed as Chief Engineer at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri

Danish Chaudhary Appointed as Chief Engineer at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 27, 2025

 Hyatt Centric Janakpuri has announced the appointment of Danish Chaudhary as the hotel’s new Chief Engineer, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and seamless infrastructure management.

Danish brings with him over 12 years of experience in hospitality engineering, project execution, and technical leadership. A familiar face within the Hyatt family, Danish was instrumental in the successful renovation and transformation of Hyatt Centric Janakpuri during its earlier transition phase, making this return a meaningful continuation of his impactful journey.

His career spans leadership roles with several top hotel brands, where he earned a reputation for his hands-on problem-solving approach, calm under pressure, and ability to lead high-performing engineering teams. Danish excels in overseeing complex hotel systems, ensuring smooth daily operations, and maintaining high service standards across all technical touchpoints.

A qualified M.Tech graduate in Power Systems, Danish blends technical expertise with strategic insight. His personal mantra, “What can I learn today that takes me to the upper right corner in the graph of life?”, reflects his relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Outside the engineering console, Danish enjoys immersing himself in science fiction and cherishes life’s little moments—be it relaxing with his favorite series or simply enjoying quiet downtime. His warmth and balanced perspective make him not only a capable leader but also a relatable and grounded team member.

With his guest-first mindset, operational excellence, and passion for continuous improvement, Danish Chaudhary is set to lead the engineering function at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri into a new chapter of innovation, reliability, and service distinction.


Anurag Sharma Appointed as Information Systems Manager at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi

Anurag Sharma Appointed as Information Systems Manager at Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 27, 2025

Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, New Delhi has announced the appointment of Anurag Sharma as the hotel’s new Information Systems Manager, marking a strategic move to strengthen its digital infrastructure and IT operations.

Anurag brings with him over 10 years of experience in hospitality IT, with expertise spanning cybersecurity, system integration, and technology-driven service enhancements. He has held pivotal IT roles at renowned brands such as Four Points by Sheraton Pune, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Karjat, and Marriott Hotels Jaipur, where he led numerous digital transformation initiatives.

His technical skill set includes advanced knowledge of Opera PMS, Micros, cloud computing, cybersecurity frameworks, and network architecture, making him an essential asset in advancing hotel technology and guest-facing systems.

At Hyatt Centric Janakpuri, Anurag will oversee the optimization of IT security protocols, integration of smart tech solutions, and the streamlining of digital operations to ensure a seamless experience for both guests and staff. His appointment aligns with the hotel’s commitment to operational efficiency, innovation, and data security in an increasingly digital hospitality environment.

Anurag holds a degree in Geography from Rajasthan University and has pursued specialized certifications in IT and cybersecurity. Outside work, he remains passionate about mentoring young tech professionals, exploring emerging technologies, and enjoying quality time with his family.

With this appointment, Hyatt Centric Janakpuri is poised to enter a new era of tech-forward hospitality, driven by Anurag Sharma’s expertise and leadership.


Rubina Sharma Appointed as Hotel Manager at Eros Hotel New Delhi

Rubina Sharma Appointed as Hotel Manager at Eros Hotel New Delhi

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 27, 2025

Eros Hotel New Delhi, Nehru Place has announced the elevation of Ms. Rubina Sharma to Hotel Manager, a move that marks the property’s ongoing commitment to nurturing internal talent and enhancing operational excellence.

Rubina, who previously held the position of EAM – Rooms and Business Development, takes on a broader leadership role, overseeing all day-to-day hotel operations, staff management, and strategic planning. Her focus will be on driving business growth, elevating guest experiences, and steering the property towards higher performance benchmarks.

With over two decades of hospitality experience, Rubina brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by key roles in Housekeeping, Front Office, and Sales. Her impressive career spans prestigious brands such as The Imperial, Taj Palace, Jaypee Hotels, and IHG, reflecting a legacy of service and operational excellence.

Since joining Eros Hotel, Rubina has played a pivotal role in revenue growth and enhancing brand visibility, especially during her recent tenure where she led the rooms and business development division with strategic acumen and deep guest insight.

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“We are delighted to have Rubina in this key leadership position,” said Davinder Juj, General Manager of Eros Hotel. “Her dedication and expertise will undoubtedly enhance our hotel’s reputation for exceptional service.”

In her response, Rubina shared, “I'm truly honoured and excited to take on this new role. Having been part of the Eros Hotel family for over a decade, I look forward to contributing even more meaningfully to our shared vision of excellence.”

Her promotion not only celebrates her professional journey but also reinforces Eros Hotel’s long-standing tradition of grooming in-house talent and building a strong leadership pipeline.

About Eros Hotel New Delhi:

Located in the heart of Nehru Place, Eros Hotel New Delhi is known for its fusion of classic Indian hospitality and modern luxury. Overlooking the iconic Lotus Temple, the hotel enjoys proximity to key business districts, shopping hubs, and tourist attractions. With a legacy spanning more than 25 years, it remains a preferred choice for both corporate and leisure travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and elegance in the capital.

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