Chef Manav Tuli’s Journey from Chaat to Leela: Elevating Indian Cuisine in Hong Kong
Chef Manav Tuli, previously at the helm of Michelin-starred Chaat in Rosewood Hong Kong, has embarked on a new culinary venture with Leela in Causeway Bay. His transition marks a significant shift in Hong Kong’s perception of Indian cuisine, transitioning from traditional fine dining to a more innovative and personalized approach.
Chaat: A Trailblazer in Fine Dining Under Tuli’s leadership, Chaat garnered critical acclaim, including a Michelin star and a reputation for exceptional service. Tuli’s departure in spring 2023 to pursue a shared ownership opportunity at Leela was a surprise to many. At Chaat, he had successfully positioned Indian cuisine within a fine-dining context, earning numerous accolades and reshaping public perception.
Leela: A New Culinary Chapter In partnership with Yenn Wong of JIA Group, Tuli’s Leela, designed by André Fu, draws inspiration from traditional palaces in Jodhpur, India. The restaurant aims to continue Tuli’s mission of elevating Indian cuisine. The challenge of training a new team, while adhering to Tuli’s unique culinary style, underscores his dedication to quality and authenticity.
Innovative Approach and Authenticity Tuli’s success stems from his innovative treatment of top-quality ingredients, underpinned by his extensive knowledge of Indian cuisine. He emphasizes the use of certified GMO- and pesticide-free spices, ensuring his dishes maintain authentic flavors while meeting high standards. Tuli credits his versatile experience at The Oberoi, Mumbai, for his broad culinary perspective.
Exploring Historical Culinary Influences At Leela, Tuli plans to explore dishes from the ancient Mauryan empire, reflecting the rich tapestry of India’s culinary history. Dishes like Kandhari gosht and Chukandar oxtail gosht illustrate the historical connections between regions once under the Mauryan rule. Tuli aims to highlight these historical narratives through his menu, offering dishes like Peshwari naan and bone marrow biryani that showcase the enduring legacy of Indian cuisine.
A Testament to Cultural Continuity Tuli’s work at Leela serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections that transcend modern geopolitical boundaries. Through his culinary creations, he narrates the history of Indian cuisine, bringing to life the flavors and stories of ancient empires. His approach underscores the importance of cultural continuity in an ever-changing world, offering Hong Kong diners a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Indian cuisine.
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