Chef Krishna Khetle KK – The Culinary Architect of Modern India Founder and Managing Partner At Chef KK Hospitality Chef Entrepreneur and media personality

Chef Krishna Khetle spearheads several culinary ventures—most notably as the founder and managing partner of his own hospitality group, Business Email : chefkkhospitality@gmail.com

Early Life and Inspiration

Chef Krishna Khetle, widely recognized in the hospitality world as Chef KK, traces his culinary passion back to his early childhood in India. Growing up in a home where food was considered a sacred bond among family members, Krishna was deeply inspired by his mother, a phenomenal home cook who brought joy to the family with her flavorful dishes. She was not just a cook but the heart of the household. Her sincere love for preparing traditional meals using local ingredients left a lasting impression on young Krishna.

For Krishna, food was not merely about sustenance; it was a medium of emotion and expression. Watching his mother work tirelessly in the kitchen—grinding spices, preparing elaborate meals, and pouring affection into every plate—ignited in him a curiosity and eventually a deep passion for cooking. The aromas of spices, the vibrant colors of Indian vegetables, and the texture of kneaded dough fascinated him. These early culinary experiences were not confined to the act of eating but extended into observing, helping, and learning.

While other children were immersed in outdoor games, Krishna found solace and excitement in the kitchen. He began experimenting under his mother’s guidance, starting with basic tasks such as chopping vegetables and cleaning grains. As he matured, so did his responsibilities and skills in the kitchen. His mother encouraged his curiosity, recognizing early on that he had a unique connection with food.

By the time he reached adolescence, Krishna was already developing his own recipes, combining flavors in innovative ways that reflected both his heritage and a budding creative flair. The kitchen became his sanctuary, a space where he could experiment, fail, learn, and grow. It was also during this phase that Krishna began to dream of turning his passion into a profession. He envisioned himself not just as a cook but as a chef—someone who would redefine culinary boundaries and represent Indian cuisine on a global platform.

The deep emotional bond with his mother, her love for food, and her unwavering support laid the foundation for Krishna’s culinary journey. Her influence remained a guiding force throughout his life, helping him remain grounded, humble, and committed to the authenticity of flavors and the artistry of plating. It was this rich, emotionally charged beginning that propelled Chef KK toward a fulfilling career that would span continents and win hearts around the world.

Education and Training

To transform his passion into a profession, Chef KK enrolled in the prestigious Rizvi College of Hotel Management in Bandra, Mumbai, where he studied food production. His academic training provided him with the technical finesse and discipline required in the culinary arts. After graduating in 2001, he continued his education informally through hands-on experiences and relentless travel.

The First Steps – Early Career Beginnings

Chef Krishna began his professional journey in 2001 at ‘Starters & More’ as a Commis Chef. Soon after, he joined the JW Marriott Hotel in Mumbai as part of the pre-opening culinary team, gaining invaluable experience in managing high-pressure kitchen environments. His roles at Marriott Executive Suites and Renaissance Lake Chalet Hotel in Powai allowed him to work closely with renowned Italian chefs, refining his techniques in Italian cuisine.

Italian Culinary Influence and Cruise Experience

Driven by his love for Italian food, Chef KK joined the Italian Costa Cruise Liners. This role took him across the breadth of Italy, enabling him to explore regional Italian cuisines and hone his skills further. His three-year stint at sea was a defining phase in his career. He not only mastered the intricacies of Italian cooking but also developed a global palate by interacting with diverse culinary professionals and cultures.

Culinary Style and Philosophy

Chef KK’s culinary philosophy is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. While he holds Italian cuisine close to his heart, his ability to adapt and innovate has made him a formidable force in international gastronomy. He believes cooking is not just a skill but an emotional experience. His process involves connecting with ingredients, understanding their origins, and transforming them into visually and gastronomically compelling dishes.

Career Milestones and Major Roles

Chef Krishna’s extensive 23-year career in the Food & Beverage industry is marked by leadership roles, prestigious awards, and the successful launch of over 58 restaurants worldwide. Here are some of his most impactful positions:

• Corporate Chef at Café Mangii (2009-2013): Opened 10 outlets across India. Won “Best Italian Cuisine” award four years in a row.
• Corporate Chef at KA Hospitality: Involved in opening and conceptualizing premium outlets like Café Infinito (Italian and Modern European), Tiffin Box Etc. (Indian Regional Cuisine), Yauatcha, and Hakkasan in Mumbai and Bangalore.
• Corporate Chef at Playboy India (2016–2018): Led culinary innovation and lifestyle-oriented dining concepts.

Entrepreneurial Spirit – Chef-Preneurship

Chef Krishna is not just a culinary artist; he is also an astute entrepreneur. His brand-building prowess is evident in ventures where he acted as both founder and consultant. Noteworthy projects include:

• Spice Laundry (Chembur, Mumbai)
• Cherrie Berry (Coonoor) – Farm-to-table concept
• The London Curry House (Bangalore)
• #LIIT Bar (Pune)
• P Town Bar (Pune)
• Secret Story (Bangalore)

These establishments reflect his creative touch and his capability to turn unique culinary ideas into thriving businesses.

Consultant Chef – Shaping F&B Concepts

Chef KK is a go-to name for F&B consulting in India and abroad. He has helped shape restaurant concepts, design menus, and structure kitchens for:

• The Little Easy (Bandra)
• Papparoti
• Bombay Adda (Mumbai, Bangalore)
• Coffee by Di Bella
• Kailash Parbat (Singapore)
• KYKE (Mulund)
• Liv Eatery & Bar (Thane)
• Cray Craft (Andheri)
• Vamos, Echo Arena (Goa)
• HANA (Thane)
• Ohh Pitara Resto Bar (Navi Mumbai)
• BAHAANA (New Bombay)
• EOS (Lucknow)
• White Garden (Bangalore)
• Bhola & Blonde (Bangalore)
• 1BHK (Mumbai, Bangalore)

Global Footprint – International Recognition

Chef KK’s expertise isn’t limited to India. His culinary footprint spans continents with projects like:

• Masala Canteen – Doha, Qatar
• The Kailash Parbat – Singapore
• Bombay – Budapest, Hungary (Upcoming)
• Coco maya – thailand 🇹🇭 upcoming
• ⁠Mazza – modern indian – Hungary 🇭🇺 Budapest
• Farmhouse – Dubai

His ability to adapt Indian flavors for international audiences has made him a respected name globally.

Recent Projects and Strategic Roles

In recent years, Chef KK has continued to make headlines through:

• Chief Strategist – The Game Palacio (Bandra)
• Brand Chef – The Little Easy, The Asian Curry House, Barworks Eatery
• Consultant Chef – Lumma House Juhu, cray craft Mumbai Andheri
• Collaborations with social dining experiences and rooftop bars across India

Awards and Recognitions – Chef Krishna Khetale

• Best Italian Cuisine Chef (4 times) – Café Mangii
• Lifestyle Chef Award – Playboy India
• Recognized as one of the Top 50 Chefs in India
• Active member of Western India Culinary Association

Chef Krishna Khetale, widely known for his inventive take on modern Indian cuisine and culinary entrepreneurship, has earned several prestigious accolades that highlight his influence in the hospitality industry:

1. Chef Entrepreneur of the Year – Golden Glory Awards, 2019
   Honored for his exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the culinary business landscape.
2. Mumbai’s Best Chefs – Asia Food Congress and Awards, 2023
   Recognized for outstanding creativity and culinary excellence among the top chefs of Mumbai.
3. Mumbai’s Best Chefs – Asia Food Congress and Awards, 2025
   A second-time recipient, reaffirming his consistent excellence and prominence in Mumbai’s dining scene.
4. Chef of the Year – Times Hospitality Icons, 2024
   Celebrated for visionary leadership, innovation, and setting new benchmarks in the Indian culinary industry.
5. Chef of the Year – Western India Culinary Association
   Awarded by one of India’s most respected culinary bodies for exemplary achievements and dedication to the craft.
6. Featured Personality – Inspiring India Magazine, 2024
   Highlighted as one of India’s most inspiring culinary figures for his journey, resilience, and contributions to Indian gastronomy.
7. Best Modern Indian Restaurant – Spice Laundry – Times Food Awards, 2022
   Awarded for curating a vibrant and innovative modern Indian dining experience.
8. Best Modern Indian Restaurant – Spice Laundry – Times Food Awards, 2024
   Received the honor again, reinforcing the restaurant’s status as a culinary destination.
9. Chef Personality of the Year – Weaver Magazine
   Acknowledged for his charismatic leadership, media presence, and impact on India’s contemporary food culture.
10. Best Modern & Global Cuisine – Luuma House – Times Hospitality Food and Nightlife Awards, 2025
    Recognized for excellence in blending global flavors with modern techniques in a refined, trendsetting format.

Social Media and Media Presence

With his charismatic personality, Chef KK has also made a mark as a media face. Whether through cooking shows, brand promotions, or social media, his influence reaches aspiring chefs and food lovers across India and beyond.

Personal Life and Values

Despite his fame, Chef KK remains grounded. He attributes his success to his roots, constant learning, and the joy he finds in culinary exploration. He enjoys traveling, having visited 48 countries, using every journey as a learning experience to enhance his culinary repertoire.

Upcoming Ventures

Chef Krishna continues to expand his culinary empire with upcoming projects:

• Blush – Mulund, Mumbai
• Flavours – Ahmedabad
• something fishy Mumbai
• EVO Bangalore
• Ayame New Bombay

These ventures are expected to bring fresh culinary concepts to India’s rapidly evolving food scene.

Legacy and Vision

Chef Krishna Khetle envisions a culinary future where Indian chefs are globally celebrated not just for traditional flavors but also for setting new culinary trends. His goal is to nurture a generation of chefs who can think innovatively, honor heritage, and bring Indian cuisine to the forefront of international fine dining.

Through his mentorship, industry-wide consulting, and relentless innovation, he aims to set new standards for culinary excellence in India and abroad. Chef KK’s commitment to authentic experiences, professional development, and cultural storytelling through food ensures that his legacy is more than just about restaurants—it’s about redefining India’s place on the global food map.

He stands as a beacon of inspiration for emerging chefs, restaurateurs, and food entrepreneurs, proving that with unwavering passion, dedication to craft, and bold vision, one can truly create a legacy that transcends generations

social media details for Chef Krishna Khetle (Chef KK)

📸 Instagram: @chefkrishnakhetle
Showcases his restaurants, food creations, and brand ventures like Spice Laundry.

💼 LinkedIn: Krishna Khetle
Over 3,000 followers | Shares updates on openings, chef insights, and hospitality leadership.