Some personalities can be inspiring. And sometimes we find them in our vicinity who change, reshape, and motivate us subtly. One of our highly talented chefs is a hero in his own way and hence, we had the privilege of interviewing him which turned out to be a delight. Chef Debraj Bhaumik, our Cluster Executive Chef at Club Mahindra Madikeri (Coorg) has 26 years of experience behind him. He honed his culinary skills at one of the best culinary institutes in India, IHM Taratola, and began his journey in the world of food as a Management Trainee with Radisson.

His love for Indian food made him research extensively about diverse regional cuisines of the country. With signature dishes like Pulled Lamb Burger in Pesto Focaccia and Honey Barbecued Pork Ribs under his belt, he has proven his mettle. A learner for life, currently he is researching Coorg food and hopes to incorporate it into the mainstream culinary industry.

Here are the other excerpts from our conversation with him –

1. When did you realize you want to pursue a career in hospitality?

Love and passion for good food was there since the time I can remember, however the real transformation to become a Professional Chef happened much later while studying Hotel Management, and the immense encouragement that I received from my teachers and later mentors at my first workplace as a Management Trainee. I feel being a Chef was possibly the right fit and the "Becoming Chef" was really effortless and easy.

2. Tell us the name of your favorite dish.

Chargrilled Redsnapper fillet with Mushroom Risotto. It is very soothing and has a good blend of tastes.

3. Do you have a comfort dish you love to dig into?

Comfort food has always been my personal favourite. Nothing Beats a Luchi & Alur Chorchori combo. I can have it in all three meals and nothing is as satiating.

4. And what would be your favorite holiday destination?

Goa. Good Food, Affordable, lovely beaches, and a lot of friends.

5. Some kitchen tools you can’t do without?

Knives, Stone Grinder, Tawa, Pans, Silicone Brush, Peeler, tasting spoons.

6. What according to you is the best part about your job?

The satisfaction of being creative and seeing happy faces when good food is served.

7. One magical moment from the past in your life would be?

When my name was announced for my first National Award - It was like living a dream.

8. A quote that you swear by?

The SECRET ingredient is always LOVE.

If you too want to experience the magical food experiences at Club Mahindra Madikeri, Coorg and meet our chef, book your holiday today!