Vikas Seth Named Culinary Leader of the Year at the Indian Hospitality Excellence Awards 2024

In the competitive world of culinary excellence, Vikas Seth has carved a distinguished path, earning the title of Culinary Leader of the Year at the Indian Hospitality Excellence Awards 2024. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Vikas has demonstrated unwavering dedication, skill, and passion for culinary arts, transforming the dining experience for countless guests through his leadership at Embassy Leisure.

Vikas Seth's journey in the culinary world began in the late 1990s, starting with international experience aboard luxury cruise lines such as Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises. His roles as Station Chef and Chef Tournant provided a foundation in high-end food production, where he refined his techniques and gained invaluable exposure to global culinary practices. These early experiences ignited his passion for creating memorable dishes while maintaining the highest quality standards.

In June 2016, Vikas took on the prestigious role of Culinary Director at Embassy Leisure, part of the renowned Embassy Group. Here, he has been instrumental in transforming the dining offerings, combining innovation with tradition to create unforgettable culinary experiences. His expertise and creativity have elevated the brand to new heights, offering guests a meal and an experience that delights the senses.

Vikas' tenure at Embassy Leisure has been marked by his visionary approach to menu design, ingredient sourcing, and team development. His ability to blend contemporary flavors with local ingredients has set new benchmarks for fine dining in Bengaluru and beyond. Under his leadership, the culinary team has achieved exceptional results, receiving accolades for outstanding service and taste.

One of Vikas' most significant contributions lies in his leadership philosophy. He has always placed a strong emphasis on mentoring young talent, guiding them through the nuances of culinary arts. His approach fosters an environment of learning, teamwork, and innovation, contributing to several aspiring chefs' growth under his mentorship. By building a strong, cohesive team, he has ensured that the culinary standards at Embassy Leisure are consistently met and exceeded.

Before his role at Embassy Leisure, Vikas served as Corporate Executive Chef at Dish Hospitality Pvt Ltd for over a decade. His leadership at Dish saw him expand the culinary operations in Mumbai and Dubai, where he played a pivotal role in designing and executing high-end menus for various prestigious events. His experience in international markets helped him develop a deep understanding of diverse culinary traditions, which he continues to apply in his work today.

Vikas' commitment to culinary excellence is evident in his continuous pursuit of knowledge. He honed his skills at the Culinary Institute of America, attending both the Mexican Cuisine program and advanced food production courses. These academic experiences have further sharpened his technical abilities, enabling him to push the boundaries of creativity in his dishes.

Sustainability has been a key focus throughout Vikas Seth's career, particularly at Embassy Leisure. He has made significant strides in implementing eco-friendly kitchen practices, sourcing local, sustainable ingredients, and reducing food waste. His dedication to sustainability has not only improved the environmental impact of his kitchens but also created a lasting legacy for future culinary leaders to follow.

As a visionary leader, Vikas Seth's approach to culinary arts is built on a foundation of innovation, quality, and sustainability. With his wealth of experience and relentless pursuit of perfection, he continues to redefine what it means to be a culinary leader in the hospitality industry.