Ajai Sharma | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 12, 1996 |
| Alma mater | Manipal Academy of Higher Education, The Culinary Institute of America |
Ajai Sharma (born 12 December 1996) is an Indian chef recognized for his work in Italian, Continental, and fusion cuisines. He has trained in culinary arts both in India and the United States and has experience working in Michelin-starred kitchens in New York and New Delhi. Sharma emphasizes sustainability and accessibility in his culinary approach, aiming to make fine dining experiences more inclusive in India.
Early life and education
editAjai Sharma was born in Meerut, India. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, part of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education, in Karnataka. Sharma later obtained an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, where he studied international cuisines and sustainable cooking.[1]
Career
editSharma began his career with internships at Park Hyatt Jeddah, Taj Hotels in Mumbai, and Hilton Hotels in Doha.[2] In New York, he held positions at notable dining venues, including Gramercy Tavern and Altro Paradiso, where he developed his skills in Italian cuisine.[3]
Upon returning to India, Sharma worked as Head Chef at the DIVA restaurant in New Delhi under the mentorship of Chef Ritu Dalmia.[4] He later joined The Bar Consultants as a Sous Chef and Project Coordinator, contributing to kitchen management and concept development for various dining establishments.[5]
Publications
editSharma is the author of two culinary books. His first book, *The Culinary Epic of Jeddah: The Tale of an Arabian Gateway*, was published in 2018 and explores Jeddah's food heritage.[6] His second book, *Saffron Saffairs: A Culinary Journey into the Flavors of Royalty*, was released in 2023 and delves into royal Indian cuisine.[7]
References
edit- ^ ""Give me such shows — give me the streets of Manhattan!" - From the Plate of Chef Ajai Sharma". The Indian Express. 2022-12-13. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ ""Give me such shows — give me the streets of Manhattan!"- From the Plate of Chef Ajai Sharma". The Indian Express. 2022-12-13. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ "From Meerut to Manhattan: Story of a young emerging chef Ajai Sharma". India Today. 2022-09-06. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ Shah, Aleem. "From Meerut to Manhattan: Story of a young emerging chef Ajai Sharma". Khaleej Times. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ "Ajai Sharma - Humans of the Kitchen". 2024-02-09. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ Tripathy, Rupali (2020-11-06). "A Pursuit of Dreams in the Culinary World: Ajai Sharma's Story". The Talented Indian. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
- ^ Tripathy, Rupali (2020-11-06). "A Pursuit of Dreams in the Culinary World: Ajai Sharma's Story". The Talented Indian. Retrieved 2024-11-04.