From the vibrant kitchens of his food-loving family in Amritsar to an illustrious career on the global culinary stage lies the remarkable journey of Chef Vikas Seth, Culinary Director at Embassy Leisure.

An early ambition and passion for cuisine drove Chef Vikas to pursue formal training further shaping his exceptional skills. His dedication has earned him notable accolades, including “Chef of the Year – 2022” from Times Food & Nightlife Awards and “Executive Chef of The Year – 2023” by Industry Live. Travelling, particularly in Mexico, has greatly influenced his culinary philosophy. Rich, diverse flavours of Mexican cuisine, along with the uncharted culinary treasures of Asian countries, have refined his expertise.

A staunch advocate for authentic techniques and local ingredients, Chef Vikas believes in elevating dishes with the finest produce available. Commitment to sustainability and local community support is evident in his approach to cooking. His innovative spirit is showcased through creations like the “Holi Tacos”, where he blends natural ingredients to produce vibrant, artistic dishes. As Culinary Director at Embassy Leisure, Chef Vikas has spearheaded the development of acclaimed establishments such as Sanchez Restaurante & Cantina, Zest Bespoke Catering, Sriracha - Contemporary Pan-Asian Dining, and HopsHaus - Brewery + Kitchen. His influence extends to Food and Beverage outlets at BLVD Club - Embassy Boulevard, further emphasizing his leadership in the industry.

An esteemed member of the Chaîne he has contributed to the culinary world through several publications; his expertise has been highlighted on TV; recognised at international events. His leadership style encourages creativity and collaboration and fosters an environment where his team can explore and innovate. Continuous learning through research, reading, and travel ensures his culinary creations remain at the forefront of the industry. Chef Vikas Seth’s journey is a testament to his passion, dedication, and commitment to the art of cuisine, making him a true ambassador of the culinary arts.

Chancelier Aslam Gafoor in conversation with Chef Vikas Seth:

How excited were you to organise the dinner for Chaîne members at your new restaurants?
I was absolutely delighted. It was a true honour to welcome a distinguished group of culinary enthusiasts and professionals just before the official opening of our Sanchez and Sriracha outlets at Embassy Manyata Techpark in Bengaluru. This new venture marks our second location offering both Mexican and Pan-Asian cuisines, following a successful decade at our original sites in UB City. The opportunity to present our restaurants’ vision and culinary creations to a like-minded audience was incredibly fulfilling and invigorating, reaffirming my passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences.

What were some of the key highlights during the dinner event?
There were several standout moments, including a carefully curated multi-course “Mariachi Fiesta with a Taste of Asia” menu that showcased our signature Mexican and Pan-Asian dishes. We kicked off with an engaging “Sense and Sensibility” course. Guests were blindfolded and invited to guess the ingredients of a delightful amuse-bouche. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and camaraderie as everyone shared their impressions of the flavours. We also prepared several exclusive dishes specifically for this event. To enhance the experience, we paired each course with specially curated cocktails and arranged for live band entertainment, making the evening truly memorable.

How do you feel this Chaîne event aligns with your broader culinary goals and vision?
Hosting this Chaîne event was perfectly aligned with my broader culinary objectives and vision. It provided a valuable opportunity to engage with food lovers and experts who share a passion for fine dining and culinary excellence. The event reinforced my commitment to advancing gastronomy through both innovation and tradition. It also allowed me to build meaningful connections within the culinary community and further establish our restaurant as a premier destination for exceptional dining experiences.

Aslam Gafoor
Chancelier