By Mewati Sitaram
For Chef Diptii Jadhav, the culinary arts are more than just a profession—they’re a lifelong passion deeply rooted in her family’s heritage and nurtured by her own innate talent. Inspired by her mother’s culinary prowess and her father’s remarkable knowledge of produce, Chef Diptii embarked on a journey to pursue her true calling, leaving behind the world of engineering for the kitchen.
Returning to her roots in Kolhapur, Chef Diptii’s culinary journey truly began under the guidance of her father, who encouraged her to spend a year working in local farms to understand the intricacies of seasonal and locally grown produce. Meanwhile, her mother honed her skills in cooking with these ingredients, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the flavors and traditions of her region.
Growing up as an Army officer’s daughter provided Chef Diptii with invaluable opportunities to explore different cuisines and ingredients from across the country. These experiences fuelled her passion for food and its ability to connect people through shared culinary experiences.
However, it was during her time at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Chennai that Chef Diptii’s culinary journey took a transformative turn. Introduced to the brand “Dakshin” during her industrial training, she was captivated by the seamless integration of traditions and food—a moment that inspired her to pursue new culinary avenues.
In 2015, Chef Diptii launched “Local Love” at ITC Maratha, Mumbai, showcasing the rich regional cuisine of Maharashtra. This endeavour was followed by the reopening of Dakshin Coastal in 2022, under the guidance of Chef Praveen Anand, further deepening her exploration of regional cuisines.
Her relentless passion for food and exploration led Chef Diptii to open “Avartana” at ITC Maratha Mumbai in 2024, guided by Chef Nikhil Nagpal. Here, she delves into the intricate flavours and stories behind indigenous ingredients, weaving together culinary traditions with contemporary techniques.
Chef Diptii’s culinary philosophy is rooted in constant exploration and creativity. Drawing inspiration from her extensive reading and travels, she continually seeks out new ingredients and techniques, breathing new life into forgotten flavors and ingredients. Yet, she acknowledges the delicate balance between tradition and innovation, recognizing that sometimes, the very pursuit of creativity can be a hindrance to true exploration.
In Chef Diptii’s world, the kitchen is not just a place of cooking—it’s a canvas for storytelling, tradition, and innovation. With each dish she creates, she honours the rich culinary heritage of India while pushing the boundaries of flavour and creativity. Through her unwavering passion and dedication, Chef Diptii Jadhav continues to inspire and delight diners with her culinary masterpieces.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
