"Cooking for me is a symphony of flavors, a dance of ingredients. It's the magic I wield to transform the mundane into the enchanting to make each bite tell a story. It's not just about feeding, it's about nourishing souls"
Piya Mitra
Piya Mitra
My culinary adventure took root in the captivating ambiance of army mess dinners. Amid the spectacle of officers resplendent in formal army uniforms, embellished with medals and regalia, and women gracing the scene in elegant chiffon sarees, the magic truly unfurled with the food. The unique blend of Indo-British cuisine, served with the most distinguished finesse, was nothing short of enchanting. Each dish was a flavorful revelation – from the delicious caramel pudding served in delicate toffee cups, to the vibrant fruit trifles and the memorable Christmas rum cakes, every morsel was imbued with an unforgettable taste. These early experiences of rich flavors, combined with the art of presentation, continue to shape and inspire the magical dishes I create today.
In the heart of my widowed grandmother’s kitchen, a different kind of culinary alchemy was at play. Maharaj, a Brahmin of a special caste, presided over this haven, brewing up Ayurvedic dishes of enchanting simplicity and divine flavor. His kitchen was his sanctum, a place no one else could enter due to caste distinctions, yet from this exclusive realm, the most magical food would emerge.
During summer vacations spent at my grandmother’s tea estates in the wild jungles of North Bengal, a unique culinary tale unfolded. As we savored chicken curry and rice amidst wild roaming elephants, the allure of the magical landscapes further amplified the flavors. The freshly brewed tea from the nearby factory not only sparked my enduring love for the brew but also added another dimension to my culinary palette, now an integral part of my high tea offerings.
As an adult, my wanderlust and insatiable foodie spirit led me on a global culinary quest. Each local grocery store visited, regional spice picked, and recipe collected from the bustling markets of Bangkok to the enchanting lanes of La Boqueria in Barcelona, became an integral part of my magical journey. I adopted these unique flavors like secret ingredients, infusing them into my creations, adding a sprinkle of international enchantment to each dish.