Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024 Chef of the Year: Harshal Kumar
Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024 recognized Harshal Kumar, the Cluster Executive Chef for Hurawalhi Island Resort & Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, with the prestigious Chef of the Year accolade. Amidst the mesmerizing waters and breathtaking vistas of the Maldives, Harshal stood as a beacon of culinary prowess, honored for his outstanding contributions to the culinary world.
Harshal has embarked on an exceptional culinary journey characterized by innovation and excellence, shaped by years of dedicated expertise in the field. From his humble beginnings to international acclaim, Harshal’s passion for culinary artistry has propelled him to the forefront of gastronomic innovation.
Throughout his career, Harshal has garnered numerous accolades, including being a gold medalist in the South American Chef Competition and representing the Chef’s Culinary Forum of WACS.
Additionally, his culinary talents have earned him global recognition, with notable collaborations alongside renowned chefs such as Australian celebrity chef Luke Mangan and Michelin-starred chef Dominik Kappelar.
Notable highlights of Harshal’s journey include his tenure with Gordon Ramsay for his pop- up restaurant, Bread Street Kitchen, at Amilla Fushi Maldives, where he redefined culinary experiences and elevated dining to new heights.
Reflecting on his remarkable achievement, Harshal Kumar expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am truly honored and deeply grateful to receive the Chef of the Year award from Hotelier Maldives 2024. This award is a testament to the unwavering support of my team and brings me renewed motivation to embark on new culinary ventures. Each dish I create tells a story, and winning Chef of the Year is another chapter in the book of my culinary journey.”
As Executive Chef, Harshal is poised to curate exceptional menus for the most breathtaking undersea restaurant in the Maldives and oversee culinary operations at both Kudadoo and Hurawalhi. His dedication to culinary excellence and passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences will undoubtedly elevate the guest experience to unprecedented heights.
Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of the Maldives, Hurawalhi Island Resort and Kudadoo Maldives Private Island offer unparalleled luxury and tranquility. With pristine lagoons and powdery white sandy beaches, these resorts provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable holiday experiences.
This recognition not only honors Harshal Kumar’s culinary mastery but also underscores the exceptional dining experiences available at both Hurawalhi and Kudadoo. The Hotelier Maldives Awards 2024, encompassing 21 general categories including housekeeping, engineering, food and beverage, spa and wellness, sales and marketing, among others, provided a platform to recognize outstanding individuals across various departments who have showcased excellence, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields.
Judging was conducted through a combination of public vote and expert panel evaluation, considering performance, achievements, customer feedback, and social responsibility. As we celebrate Harshal’s remarkable achievement, we extend an invitation to guests to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other at Hurawalhi and Kudadoo, where each meal is a unique experience crafted with passion and creativity.
