Atul Kochhar’s inimitable talent as a twice-Michelin-starred chef has changed the way people
perceive and experience Indian food. He is at the forefront of the Indian culinary industry
for the over 30 years and is recognised on an international scale.
Born in Jamshedpur, India, Atul started his career at the prestigious The Oberoi group of
hotels in India where he became sous chef and led a team of 18. Rising significantly through
the ranks, he also gained his diploma in Hotel Management and moved to the Hilton group to
work under the guidance of renowned chef Bernard Kunig. In 1994 Atul was given the
opportunity to move to London to lead and open Tamarind restaurant.
Inspired by his native India, Atul combines his heritage with his love of British
ingredients to create and delivers modern Indian cuisine. It was at Tamarind restaurant in
2001 where he received his first Michelin star. In 2002 Atul then went on to open his very
own restaurant, Benares in London’s Mayfair, which earned him a second Michelin star in
2007.
In 2018 Atul left Benares to pursue other independent ventures and to further develop Atul
Kochhar Hospitality Group and his catering company Amod Events.
AKHG: Kanishka in Mayfair, London; Vaasu and Sindhu, Marlow; Hawkyns in Amersham; Riwaz in
Beaconsfield; Masalchi in Wembley Park; Indian Essence in Petts Wood and Essence in
Tunbridge Wells.