Chef Gargi Guha from the Italian Kitchen of Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa has emerged as one of the country’s brightest young culinary talents, distinguished by her instinct for balance, artistry and unwavering dedication to Italian cuisine. Her recent triumph at the Barilla Pasta Championship – India Edition has further cemented her position as a rising star, earning her the coveted national title among six exceptional finalists.
Her award-winning dish, Seradura Cannoli, reflected a thoughtful interplay between innovation and tradition. Drawing inspiration from the Goan-Portuguese dessert seradura and combining it with the timeless Italian cannoli, she created a dessert that was imaginative, delicate, creamy and crisp, all while remaining beautifully composed.
The Barilla Championship serves as a global platform celebrating authenticity, creativity and sustainability in Italian cuisine. Chef Gargi’s victory is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for Goa’s flourishing culinary community, highlighting the depth of talent emerging from the region.
As she prepares to compete at the Barilla Asia Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Gargi carries forward the spirit of Indian culinary excellence to a larger stage. Her path to this honour, marked by rigorous preparation and relentless perseverance, reflects the ethos nurtured within IHCL.
Megha Bhatia, General Manager, Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa, shared, “At IHCL, we take immense pride in nurturing talent from within and creating equal opportunities for growth and recognition across all levels. Chef Gargi’s achievement is a shining example of how passion, creativity, and mentorship converge to shape excellence. Her success reflects not only her remarkable skill but also our commitment to empowering women in hospitality and celebrating merit above all else.”
As she represents India among Asia’s finest, Chef Gargi steps into the next chapter of her culinary journey with promise and poise. Her creativity continues to inspire, her flavours continue to narrate stories, and her talent stands poised to bring home more laurels, making India proud.
Dining and Cooking