On National Startup Day 2025, Anish Varshnei, Co-Founder of Latambarcem Brewers, reflects on his unique journey from the bustling kitchens of the Culinary Institute of America to the bubbling fermentation vats of a brewery in Goa.

"Once a chef with a discerning palate and a flair for the dramatic, I traded in my knives for hops and barley," says Varshnei, whose culinary expertise now fuels his passion for crafting exceptional beers under the brands Borécha and Maka Di.

Born and raised in Goa, Anish began his culinary journey at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, where his skills were honed to perfection. However, his passion for exploring uncharted territories in the food and beverage space led him to the art of brewing. At just 29, Anish embraced the challenge of fermentation, blending the precision and creativity from his culinary background to revolutionize craft beer in India.

Anish’s brewing expertise has earned him numerous accolades, including a bronze award for Maka Di Belgian Tripel and two Witbier Chairman's Selection awards for Maka Di Belgian Blanche at the Asia Beer Championship. His hands-on approach to production ensures that his beers consistently deliver quality, affordability, and enjoyment to consumers.

"As a chef and now a brewer, I’ve always believed that every creation—whether a dish or a beer—must tell a story. My proudest moments come from seeing our customers’ satisfaction, reflecting the dedication and effort our team puts into every product," he shares.

In addition to co-founding Latambarcem Brewers, Anish serves as Chief Operating Officer and holds directorship roles at multiple companies, showcasing his ability to blend business acumen with creative ingenuity.

On this National Startup Day, Anish Varshnei’s story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs across the nation, demonstrating how a passion for quality, innovation, and craftsmanship can pave the way to success in unexpected industries.