Applied to:
This trophy celebrates the exceptional achievements of an employee within the hospitality industry who has demonstrated outstanding dedication, excellence, and commitment in their profession. This employee has made a significant impact on the industry through their exemplary career and the recognition they have received from clients for their exceptional quality of service. They have consistently demonstrated a passion for their work, going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the satisfaction of their guests. Their contributions to the hospitality industry have set them apart as an inspiration to others in their field, and they have earned the respect and admiration of their colleagues and peers.
The project:
Chef Naren Thimmaiah has been the driving force behind the iconic Karavalli restaurant for over three decades, shaping it into a globally recognized destination for authentic Southwest coastal cuisine. As Executive Chef at Vivanta Bengaluru Residency Road, Chef Thimmaiah has consistently maintained the restaurant’s excellence, combining traditional cooking techniques with innovative culinary practices.
Under his leadership, Karavalli has garnered numerous accolades, including being ranked among Asia's 50 Best Restaurants by St. Pellegrino and featured in prestigious global publications such as The New York Times. Chef Thimmaiah’s dedication to preserving regional culinary traditions has led to the introduction of dishes from diverse communities, such as the Moplahs of Malabar and the Syrian Christians of Travancore. He emphasizes sustainability, sourcing ingredients from local and authentic suppliers, and incorporating seasonal seafood offerings.
Chef Thimmaiah has represented India on the global culinary stage, participating in the World Gourmet Summit in Singapore. He is a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award by Eazydiner (2019) and the Food Legend Award (2019) for his contributions to elevating Karnataka’s cuisine globally. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen, serving on academic boards and food panels, including MasterChef India.
A passionate mentor, Chef Thimmaiah ensures his team is well-trained and motivated. He employs innovative training tools like visual aids in the kitchen and on-the-job coaching to maintain consistency and uphold Karavalli's reputation for excellence.
Chef Thimmaiah’s vision is to make Karavalli an internationally acclaimed restaurant that provides immersive culinary experiences. By blending honest food, regional authenticity, and exceptional service, he has set a gold standard in the industry, preserving culinary heritage while catering to modern palates. His dedication continues to inspire both his team and the restaurant's loyal patrons
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
