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Chef Pankaj Walia is an Executive Chef Culinary position within your organisation . With over 22 years of experience in the culinary industry, including significant achievements such as securing Michelin Guide recognition for Alila Jabal Akhdar Resort in Oman,
His journey from the serene valleys of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, to the kitchens of luxury hotels and resorts across the globe is a testament to his dedication, talent, and passion for fine dining. Specializing in modern and fine dining cooking techniques, Chef Pankaj is known for his expertise in both Western and Eastern cuisines, including Italian, Thai, Indian, Chinese, and various other global culinary styles.
From humble beginnings in India to working at some of the most prestigious hotels and resorts, Chef Pankaj has achieved milestones that many chefs only dream of. His leadership in high-end resorts in the Maldives, Oman, and India, paired with his Michelin Star exposure, makes him a distinguished figure in the international culinary community.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in the tranquil Himalayan Valley of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Chef Pankaj’s early life was shaped by the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of his surroundings. This idyllic environment fostered his love for food and hospitality, inspiring him to pursue a career in the culinary arts. After completing his primary education, Pankaj enrolled at Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla, where he earned his degree. With a strong academic background, he furthered his culinary knowledge by pursuing a diploma from the prestigious American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), which set the foundation for his future culinary endeavors.
Career Beginnings
Chef Pankaj’s professional career began in 2003 when he joined the renowned Radisson Hotel in Jalandhar, Punjab. It was here that he first honed his skills and got a taste of the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of professional kitchens. This early exposure provided him with a solid foundation in kitchen operations and introduced him to the nuances of working in a luxury hotel environment.
From his initial role at Radisson, Pankaj quickly moved to The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, where he spent several years perfecting his culinary skills and broadening his knowledge of fine dining. His tenure at The Oberoi Cecil in Shimla, The Oberoi New Delhi, and The Oberoi Trident in Mumbai provided him with invaluable experience in handling international cuisines, which would become the cornerstone of his career.
Growth and Development with Hyatt
In 2010, Pankaj joined Hyatt Regency Mumbai as Sous Chef. This marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his career. Hyatt provided him with an exceptional platform to experiment with diverse culinary techniques, further refine his skills, and build a solid reputation in the hospitality industry. During his time at Hyatt Regency, Pankaj gained exposure to Western and Eastern culinary traditions, expanding his culinary range.
His leadership skills were soon recognized, and Pankaj was promoted to the role of Chef de Cuisine at Hyatt Regency Pune, where he oversaw operations at the hotel’s multiple food and beverage outlets. This role allowed him to further refine his management skills while continuing to push the boundaries of creativity in the kitchen.
International Exposure and Michelin Star Experience
In his quest for excellence, Chef Pankaj sought international exposure, which significantly shaped his culinary style. His time at the Grand Hyatt in Dubai and his experience in Thailand opened doors to a new level of culinary understanding, allowing him to work alongside Michelin Star chefs and learn modern techniques such as sous-vide cooking, thermomixer, and Asian cooking methods.
These global experiences enriched his culinary journey, and his work in international kitchens provided him with fresh insights into the culinary world, from ingredient sourcing to the finer points of food presentation and taste. His tenure in Dubai and Thailand was pivotal in shaping Pankaj into a well-rounded and innovative culinary leader.
Culinary Leadership at Luxury Resorts
Chef Pankaj’s leadership journey took a major leap when he became the Executive Chef at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives in 2017. This luxury resort, known for its high-end clientele and pristine beachfront views, allowed Pankaj to oversee multiple food and beverage outlets. His ability to curate world-class dining experiences for the resort’s guests gained him immense recognition in the hospitality industry.
Under his leadership, the resort flourished, winning accolades for its innovative culinary offerings and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Pankaj’s creative menus and his leadership in culinary operations helped cement Atmosphere Kanifushi as a premier destination for food lovers.
In 2020, Pankaj moved to the role of Executive Chef at OZEN Life Maadhoo, another luxury resort in the Maldives. This role gave him the opportunity to manage the resort’s acclaimed underwater restaurant, M6m, which became a highlight of the resort’s dining experience. Pankaj’s expertise in curating unique dining experiences, coupled with his skill in handling special dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-conscious menus, ensured that OZEN Life Maadhoo continued to stand out in the competitive Maldives resort scene.
Visionary Leadership at OBLU Resorts
In 2022, Pankaj took on the prestigious role of Cluster Executive Chef at OBLU Select Lobigili and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi in the Maldives. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing the culinary operations of two high-end resorts simultaneously, ensuring that both resorts offered world-class dining experiences for their guests. His ability to juggle the demands of both properties, while maintaining a high standard of excellence, speaks to his leadership capabilities and culinary expertise.
Under his direction, OBLU Select Lobigili’s flagship restaurant, Only Blu, became an iconic dining destination in the Maldives. The success of this restaurant, combined with his hands-on leadership at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, solidified Pankaj’s reputation as one of the leading chefs in the luxury hospitality industry.
Innovative Culinary Approach and Achievements
Chef Pankaj is known for his commitment to modern cooking techniques and his ability to adapt to changing culinary trends. His expertise in cooking sous-vide, working with thermomixers, and incorporating modern fine dining techniques into traditional recipes has set him apart from his peers.
His culinary philosophy revolves around creativity, efficiency, and a constant pursuit of excellence. Whether creating a menu for a Michelin Star restaurant or crafting dishes for a luxury resort, Pankaj’s approach remains consistent: to deliver exceptional dining experiences that delight the senses and exceed guest expectations.
Among his most notable achievements is his role in the opening of the underwater restaurant M6m at OZEN Life Maadhoo and Only Blu at OBLU Select Lobigili, both of which became critical to the resorts’ identities. His leadership in launching new dining concepts and revamping existing ones earned him accolades, including the Michelin Guide nomination for Alila Jabal Akhdar in 2023.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Chef Pankaj has received numerous awards and recognition for his work. His ability to create exceptional dining experiences earned him the title of Best Italian Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Chandigarh, as well as Best Vegetarian Restaurant at Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives. These accolades, among others, reflect his commitment to excellence and his ability to elevate the dining experiences at every property he works at.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Training
In addition to his culinary accomplishments, Chef Pankaj is a dedicated mentor and trainer. He has trained countless chefs and kitchen staff throughout his career, passing on his knowledge of both traditional and modern culinary techniques. His participation in corporate cooking sessions and culinary challenges further demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent.
Chef Pankaj is also a Certified Departmental Trainer (CDT) from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development, where he contributed to training programs aimed at enhancing the skills of new chefs. His mentorship extends to his role as a speaker and instructor at various culinary events and conferences, including the Business of F&B event in India and Dubai.
The Future: A Commitment to Culinary Excellence
As of January 2023, Chef Pankaj has been the Executive Chef at Alila Jabal Akhdar, a rustic luxury resort in Oman, where he continues to push the boundaries of culinary excellence. His work at Alila Jabal Akhdar, nominated by the Michelin Guide in 2023, further cements his status as one of the world’s leading chefs.
Chef Pankaj’s future goals involve continuing to innovate within the culinary world, mentoring young chefs, and contributing to the growth of the luxury hospitality sector. His passion for food and commitment to excellence are unwavering, and he remains dedicated to creating unforgettable culinary experiences for guests around the world.
Personal Life
Chef Pankaj Walia was born on April 1, 1980, in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India. He is married and is fluent in Hindi, English, and Punjabi. His personal life reflects the same discipline and dedication that he applies to his professional endeavors. His hobbies include traveling, exploring new cuisines, and constantly learning about food trends to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving culinary world.
JOURNEY
Chef Pankaj Walia’s journey from the serene town of Palampur in Himachal Pradesh, India, to becoming an Executive Chef at world-renowned luxury resorts is nothing short of extraordinary. Born and raised in the picturesque Himalayan Valley, his deep-rooted connection to nature and culture sparked a lifelong passion for food and hospitality. Chef Pankaj’s pursuit of culinary excellence began with his studies at Himachal Pradesh University and the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, which laid the foundation for his remarkable career in the culinary world.
With over 22 years of experience, Chef Pankaj has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel chains, including The Oberoi, Hyatt, Radisson, and Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts. His career has spanned across multiple countries, including India, the Maldives, Dubai, and Oman, where he has gained invaluable international exposure. Throughout his journey, Chef Pankaj has honed his skills, mastering various cuisines such as Italian, Thai, Indian, Chinese, and Western, and implementing modern cooking techniques like sous-vide and thermomixers.
As an Executive Chef, Pankaj is known for his exceptional leadership skills, inspiring creativity in the kitchen while ensuring high standards of quality and consistency. His innovative approach to culinary arts, combined with his ability to create memorable dining experiences, has earned him numerous accolades, including a Michelin Guide nomination for Alila Jabal Akhdar in 2023.
Chef Pankaj’s legacy is one of dedication, mentorship, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. His influence on the global culinary stage continues to inspire aspiring chefs, and his work in luxury hospitality reflects the very essence of fine dining and excellence. Through his exceptional leadership and creativity, Chef Pankaj has redefined the culinary landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the world of gourmet cuisine.
