The second wave of COVID-19 brought unprecedented challenges to many around the world, but for Lavanya Karun Mehrotra, it also presented an opportunity for growth and innovation. As lockdowns were imposed and the world came to a standstill, Lavanya felt an undeniable urge to take action and channel her creativity into something productive. What began as a small venture to fill her time quickly grew into a thriving home kitchen that would leave a lasting mark on her culinary career.
With a modest investment, Lavanya launched her home kitchen, a venture that was as creative as it was meticulous. She committed herself to offering a fresh and exciting dining experience, changing the menu every week to keep things innovative for her customers. From comfort food to gourmet dishes, each week presented a new culinary adventure for her patrons, who eagerly awaited the latest creations from her kitchen.
Lavanya’s approach to her home kitchen business was rooted in a deep commitment to quality. Every dish was made from scratch, with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. The venture thrived for three months, providing a unique dining experience until the lockdown was lifted. However, the impact of her home kitchen extended far beyond the lockdown. Those three months were crucial in shaping Lavanya’s culinary expertise, helping her refine her skills and instill patience during one of the most challenging periods in recent memory.
From Humble Beginnings to International Recognition
Lavanya’s career journey began much earlier, though, and her ambition as a chef was anything but conventional. Growing up in a family of doctors, she found herself at odds with the traditional expectations placed upon her. Convincing her family to support her dream of becoming a chef was no easy task, but her determination eventually prevailed. With their support, she enrolled at the esteemed Institute of Hotel Management in Aurangabad, India, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Culinary Arts Management.
Her first professional role was as Demi Chef de Partie at a regional Indian cuisine restaurant run by a celebrity chef in India. In a country where the culinary industry is often dominated by men, Lavanya faced gender bias and harsh criticism. It is common to work up from Cook 3 to Cook 1 over the span of several years, but Lavanya bypassed that process with her dedication, immediately taking on the role of Demi Chef de Partie, a testament to her natural talent and hard work.
Despite the challenges, Lavanya persisted. She was determined to not only succeed but to excel in a field that was still coming to terms with female leadership. This persistence and resolve helped her rise quickly in the industry, earning accolades and promotions at every restaurant she worked at.
Creativity and Skill at the Heart of a Flourishing Culinary Career
Lavanya’s home kitchen was more than just a response to the pandemic; it was a platform where she could express her creativity while honing her culinary skills. By offering a rotating menu, she not only kept her customers engaged but also challenged herself to master new techniques and recipes. This adaptability became one of the cornerstones of her culinary philosophy—never settling, always learning.
Her dedication to hygiene and safety during the operation of her home kitchen also contributed significantly to its success. During a time when health and cleanliness were top priorities, Lavanya’s attention to detail reassured her customers, helping her build a reputation for trust and reliability. It’s these small but significant touches that set her apart and contributed to her growth as a chef.
Through this venture, Lavanya’s skills in bread making and viennoiserie flourished. Over the years, she has specialized in various types of bread, from the rustic charm of sourdough to the delicate complexities of French and Japanese traditional breads. Today, she stands proud as a master in the art of bread making, an area of expertise that continues to be a hallmark of her career. Lavanya’s expertise doesn’t stop there—her repertoire spans Modern European, Mexican, and Indian cuisines, a true reflection of her diverse culinary background.
A Culinary Leader with Global Experience
Lavanya’s home kitchen was just the beginning of her journey, but her path in the culinary world stretches far beyond those three months. Her career took a significant leap during her time at the prestigious Ritz Carlton, where she participated in a student exchange program. At the Ritz Carlton, Lavanya thrived as a leader in their flagship restaurant, Obar, and other culinary departments. It was here that she truly began to cultivate her leadership and kitchen management competencies, skills that would continue to serve her throughout her career.
Her dedication, talent, and hard work did not go unnoticed. Throughout her time at the Ritz Carlton, Lavanya received several First Class cards and recommendation letters, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the restaurant’s success, a mark of glory to her ability to excel in high-pressure environments and lead her team to success.
Lavanya’s time at the Ritz Carlton solidified her belief in the importance of teamwork, leadership, and adaptability in the kitchen. She emerged from the experience with a deeper understanding of what it takes to run a successful restaurant and a renewed passion for the culinary arts.
Following this, Lavanya’s career reached even greater heights when she secured a coveted position at One White Street in Manhattan, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its excellence in modern cuisine. Securing this position was no small achievement, as it placed Lavanya in one of the most competitive culinary environments in the world.
A Career on an Upward Path
Today, Lavanya Karun Mehrotra stands as a dedicated and career-oriented chef, with a passion that continues to propel her forward. Her journey, which began in a home kitchen during a time of global uncertainty, has blossomed into a flourishing career defined by creativity, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Lavanya’s ability to balance tradition with innovation, coupled with her leadership skills, ensures that her culinary career is on a steadfast upward trajectory.
Her story is one of resilience and adaptability. In every challenge, Lavanya finds an opportunity to grow, whether it’s mastering the delicate art of viennoiserie or leading a culinary team at a world-renowned hotel. Her vision is clear: to continue creating, innovating, and leading in the culinary world, while making her mark as an influential figure in the industry.
For those looking to follow her culinary journey, Lavanya shares her creations and experiences through her social media platform, The Savoury Fare. It is through this platform that she continues to connect with fellow food enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the world of a chef whose passion for food knows no bounds.
As Lavanya’s career continues to flourish, one thing remains certain—her commitment to quality, creativity, and leadership will continue to shape her path in the culinary world. Whether she’s creating gourmet dishes, perfecting her bread-making techniques, or leading a kitchen team, Lavanya is a name to watch in the ever-evolving landscape of global cuisine.
Follow Lavanya’s culinary journey on Instagram at The Savoury Fare.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
