Interview with Varun Totlani of Masque

Born and grew up in Mumbai, India, Chef Varun Totlani has always loved food and all things related to it. He spent a lot of time watching cooking shows and internet videos for fun.

His dreams took on a more professional tone as he began to stage at a 5-star hotel in the city then moved to Hyderabad to study at the Culinary Academy of India, and later graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New York.

When he returned to India in 2016, he joined the Masque opening team as a Commis, and rose through the ranks from being the Sous Chef in 2021, to the Head Chef in 2022. He is focused on showcasing the diversity of India’s produce and carrying the cuisine forward into the future.

After Chef Totlani took over the rein in 2025, the restaurant was ranked as No.19 in the 2025 Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list. In 2026, it jumped to No. 15 and also won the prestigious Art of Hospitality Award.

In this episode, Chef Totlani talks about defying the naysayers, the complexity of Indian food, his life philosophy and more.

Don't miss these Stoveside Stories - and bon appetit!

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