Chef Ritwik Sarkar is the head chef at Cafe Felix. While he enters the restaurant from the kitchen, there are hushed exchanges from diners commenting on how handsome Chef Ritwik is. But not just a pretty face, Sarkar believes in keeping authenticity of dishes while still being challenged and motivated by new dishes.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Kolkata, moved to Madhya Pradesh at the age of three months and spent 16 years there. I visited Kolkata on and off as it's my hometown.

What led you to becoming a chef?

I never wanted to become a chef. Always wanted to be a pilot (scored very bad in physics :)) but probably realized it after doing my hotel management, my interest lies in cooking. That’s when my palate took shape and I developed it further.

How long have you been a chef?

Nine years, seven months, six days and counting...

What do you enjoy more? Cooking or creating?

Both simultaneously. While cooking is relaxing, creating is challenging and motivating.

Do you feel there is virtue in preserving the authenticity of cuisine?

Of course. YES. Classics are and shall always remain evergreen. Just to prevent things from becoming monotonous, we as chefs love to play around a bit with the taste notes. And while doing so, we discover that the dish does taste good in its new avatar too.

What dish do you like eating the most?

Hands down, mom's food. There's nothing like it and that's something that will never change.

What’s your least favourite dish?

Nothing that I can think of. Any dish cooked with love is my favourite.

How long have you been in Bangalore?

It's been five months now.

Do you like it here?

Yeah I do.