Fairmont Udaipur Palace Welcomes Amitesh Virdi as Director of Culinary

Written By: Jishnoo Banerjee

Jishnoo Banerjee

A published author with over 9 years of experience in writing, poetry, and novel creation. Starting out on social media, Jishnoo gained recognition for engaging content in both English and Bengali. With a strong background as a news content writer, Jishnoo now contributes to a prestigious global travel magazine. Known for blending creative writing with journalism, the work seamlessly combines artistic expression with insightful reporting across different platforms.

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August 25, 2025 22:01 GMT+5:30

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The Fairmont Udaipur Palace is delighted to share that Amitesh Virdi has accepted the position of Director of Culinary. A resident of Udaipur, Amitesh has over 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He is expected to enrich the Udaipur property by integrating his globalized perspective and culinary mastery to further enhance the brand’s prestige. The hospitality industry is expected to undergo significant changes courtesy of Amitesh’s work.

A Storied Culinary Journey

Amitesh’s culinary career began with a deep passion for food, which led him to professional training under the Indian Ministry of Tourism. Over the years, he has refined his skills in multiple prestigious establishments across India, working with renowned brands such as Grand Hyatt in Delhi and Mumbai, JW Marriott in Juhu, Sahar, Mussoorie, and Pune, Le Méridien Delhi, and Punjab Grill, where he served as Executive Chef. Amitesh’s extensive international exposure and focus on Indian, European, Italian, and Sichuan cuisines have shaped his distinctive culinary style.

Culinary Vision at Fairmont Udaipur Palace

At Fairmont Udaipur Palace, Amitesh is set to lead a groundbreaking culinary program that blends Rajasthan’s royal heritage with global culinary innovations. His culinary approach embraces traditional recipes and regional ingredients while incorporating modern techniques and sustainable practices. Through his vision, the culinary offerings at Fairmont are transforming into immersive experiences, where each dining venue reflects an authentic blend of local flair and international sophistication.

Transforming Dining Concepts

Amitesh’s leadership brings a fresh perspective to Fairmont Udaipur’s diverse dining concepts. His culinary direction has redefined spaces like Bahaar – The Gastronomical Garden, which offers a dynamic dining experience with live cooking theatres, and Dastaan, a narrative-driven tea lounge where the art of storytelling takes center stage. Other venues, including the Mediterranean-inspired The Alchemist, the lively lounge Celeste, and the leopard-themed Dahaad, offer guests unique dining experiences that combine the charm of regional cuisine with global refinement.

Emphasis on Sustainability and Local Sourcing

Amitesh’s menus are deeply rooted in sustainability and wellness. His commitment to local sourcing and farm-to-table dining ensures that every dish is prepared with seasonal, fresh ingredients. By collaborating with regional farmers, he champions the use of indigenous grains, native dairy, and traditional spices, helping to preserve local food cultures while delivering exceptional flavors. Traditional Rajasthani dishes like laal maas, pittod ki sabzi, and khuskhus ki sabzi are reinvented with a modern touch, plated elegantly, and served with a deep respect for heritage.

Revolutionizing Experiential Dining

In the wedding and events sector, Amitesh is redefining how luxury hospitality integrates experiential dining. By crafting personalized, narrative-rich menus, he is making large-scale dining events more memorable and meaningful. Signature dining rituals such as the 56-dish Royal Thaal, live regional food stations, and desserts infused with storytelling are just a few of the ways he is elevating the experience for guests.

Culinary Excellence and Legacy

Amitesh’s leadership at Fairmont Udaipur Palace seeks to foster an environment where a meal transcends eating and evokes emotions and memories. Through his attention to detail in creativity and innovation in cuisine, every meal served on the property will not just be a meal, but an exquisite venture to relish and an unforgettable celebration of flavor and culture.

Amitesh Virdi’s leadership at Fairmont Udaipur Palace will redefine luxury dining in India with a new exceptional offering steeped in tradition but blended with modern essence.

Photo: Fairmont Udaipur Palace