Vikas Khanna is an Indian American Chef, Restaurateur, Author, Filmmaker, and Humanitarian known for elevating Indian cuisine on the global stage through thoughtful technique and storytelling.
Born in Amritsar in 1971, Khanna transformed early hardship into a culinary mission that blends tradition, innovation, and large scale philanthropy.
Vikas's Formal Culinary Training
Vikas Khanna began his formal culinary path at the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration in Manipal, graduating in 1991. He later refined his skills at the Culinary Institute of America and studied at New York University to broaden his hospitality and business knowledge.
As a young cook he apprenticed and worked in prominent Indian hotel groups such as Taj, Oberoi, and Leela, gaining exposure to fine dining service and regional Indian techniques that would shape his approach in later years.
The Fastest Growing
Restaurant & Hospitality Job Platform
Looking for top paid jobs? Or Hiring for your business?
Vikas Khanna Restaurants & Businesses
Khanna has built a global restaurant portfolio that showcases regional Indian flavors interpreted with precision and a contemporary palate.
- Junoon (2010) – Opened in New York Citys Flatiron district, Junoon is an upscale destination that earned a Michelin star and critical acclaim for its refined Indian cuisine and elegant dining experience.
- Bungalow (2024) – Located in the East Village in New York, Bungalow focuses on lesser known regional dishes from India and earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for quality and value.
- Kinara (2019) – A Dubai outpost emphasizing bold, aromatic Indian dishes adapted for an international audience.
- Ellora (2020) – A concept that continues Khannas interest in regional authenticity and elevated presentation.
- Early Ventures – Khanna started entrepreneurial work as a teenager with Lawrence Gardens Banquets, an early indicator of his drive to build hospitality businesses.
These restaurants, along with pop ups and collaborations, reflect Khannas commitment to bringing Indian culinary narratives to diverse diners worldwide.
Vikas Khanna's Other Ventures
Beyond restaurants, Khanna has expanded into publishing, film, and branded projects to amplify Indian food and culture.
- Cookbooks: He has authored over 40 cookbooks, including award winning titles like Flavors First and the luxury volume UTSAV, which drew attention for its craftsmanship and storytelling.
- Filmmaking: Khanna has directed and produced food and documentary films that explore food as culture, identity, and healing.
- Media: He has appeared on international television and served as a Judge on MasterChef India while guesting on other shows to promote Indian cuisine.
Vikas Khanna Shows
Khannas television and media work has helped introduce Indian culinary traditions to global audiences.
- MasterChef India – Longtime Judge, mentoring contestants and highlighting regional diversity.
- International Appearances – Guest spots on programs with global chefs, sharing recipes and commentary on Indian gastronomy.
- Documentaries and Short Films – Projects that blend food, travel, and social themes, expanding his role as a storyteller beyond the kitchen.
Through these platforms Khanna acts as Chef, teacher, and cultural ambassador, using media to champion authenticity and social purpose.
The Fastest Growing
Restaurant & Hospitality Job Platform
Looking for top paid jobs? Or Hiring for your business?
Vikas Khanna Awards and Accolades
Khannas work has been recognized with culinary honors and media awards that acknowledge both his cooking and his humanitarian impact.
- Michelin Recognition
- Junoon earned a Michelin star for multiple years, establishing Khanna in New Yorks fine dining scene.
- Bungalow received a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2024.
- Culinary Awards
- StarChefs Rising Star Chef Award in 2011 and other industry honors for his leadership.
- Literary and Media Honors
- Flavors First won the Benjamin Franklin Award and Khannas books and films have received international praise.
- Humanitarian Recognition
- Acclaim for the Feed India campaign and other philanthropic initiatives that provided millions of meals during crisis periods.
Vikas Khanna Personal Life
Born November 14, 1971 in Amritsar, Punjab, Khanna was raised in a household where his mother and grandmother passed down traditional recipes and culinary philosophies. He was born with a club foot, which limited physical activity early on and directed him toward the kitchen as a place of equal footing and purpose.
At 17 he launched Lawrence Gardens Banquets, showing an early entrepreneurial streak. He later moved to New York City in 2000, where he worked his way up from entry level jobs to become an Executive Chef and restaurateur.
Khanna resides in New York City and balances his time between his restaurants, writing, filmmaking, and humanitarian work. He has cooked for world leaders and spiritual figures and remains committed to using food as a means to serve and connect communities.
Vikas Khanna Family and Friends
Khannas family played a central role in his culinary formation. His mother and grandmother inspired his love of Indian home cooking and regional techniques.
Over his career he has worked with many collaborators in hospitality, publishing, and film, building partnerships that support both his creative projects and charitable campaigns.
He has hosted meals and events attended by dignitaries including President Obama, the Dalai Lama, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using those platforms to highlight culture and charity.
Vikas Khanna Chef Profile: Conclusion
Vikas Khanna is a multifaceted Chef and cultural ambassador who has used cuisine, books, film, and philanthropy to share Indias rich culinary heritage with the world. His career blends technique, storytelling, and service.
From a young entrepreneur in Amritsar to a Michelin recognized Chef in New York and a leader of humanitarian campaigns, Khannas influence extends beyond food to impact community and culture globally.
Loading comments...