Ashna Wadhawan is a proud WoWer – whose journey from Mumbai to Michelin Stardom got covered in MidDay.
In the realm of haute cuisine, where culinary artisans craft symphonies of taste, Chef Ashna’s journey from the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the prestigious kitchens of New York City has become a tale of culinary prowess and determination. This chronicles the rise of a culinary virtuoso whose path to stardom is paved with resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Ashna’s story begins amidst the bustling energy of Mumbai, where she first delved into the intricate art of pastry-making. From the bustling kitchens of Foodhall to the aromatic corridors of Cococafé, she meticulously honed her skills, laying the foundation for a remarkable journey that would propel her to the pinnacle of culinary achievement.
Fueled by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and adventure, Ashna set her sights on the culinary epicenter of New York City. The transition was exhilarating yet formidable, as she navigated the bustling streets and diverse culinary landscape of the Big Apple, determined to carve out her place in the competitive world of fine dining.
Yet, behind the glamour of Michelin-starred restaurants lay a crucible of challenges and trials. Long hours, blistered hands, and sleepless nights became the norm—a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft amidst the chaos of the kitchen.
Joining the opening team at Le Pavilion thrust Chef Ashna into the demanding world of haute cuisine, where the pressure to excel was relentless. Despite the daunting odds, she emerged triumphant, playing an instrumental role in earning the restaurant its inaugural Michelin star within a year—a feat that catapulted her into the culinary limelight.
At SAGA, the challenges were equally formidable, but the rewards were commensurate. As a vital member of the culinary brigade, Chef Ashna helped propel SAGA to unparalleled heights of excellence, garnering prestigious accolades such as Two Michelin star, Relais & Châteaux accreditation and four AAA diamond ratings.
Throughout her arduous journey, one thing remained constant: Chef Ashna’s unwavering passion for her craft—a fire that burned bright even in the darkest hours. It was this passion that fueled her relentless pursuit of culinary perfection, driving her to push beyond the limits of exhaustion and fatigue.
Today, standing at the pinnacle of culinary achievement, Chef Ashna’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chefs around the globe. From the vibrant streets of Mumbai to the hallowed halls of Michelin-starred restaurants, hers is a journey marked by tenacity, talent, and an unshakeable commitment to excellence.
In the words of the legendary chef Paul Bocuse, “Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors—it’s how you combine them that sets you apart.” Chef Ashna has mastered this artistry, weaving flavors and textures into culinary masterpieces that tantalize the senses and captivate the palate.
To all those who dare to dream, to strive, and to savor the sweetness of success, Chef Ashna offers these words of wisdom: Embrace the struggle, cherish the journey, and never lose sight of the flame that burns within. For in the crucible of creativity, amid the heat and the hustle, true greatness is forged.
Bon appétit!