Chef Vivek Saggar – Brand Ambassador for the Confederation of Tourism and Hospitality (CTH UK) | Global Culinary Mentor & Hospitality Leader | Chef Vivek Saggar – India’s Visionary Culinary Maestro Empowering Global Hospitality |Mentor, Judge & Architect of India’s Culinary Future |The Man Behind India’s WorldSkills Culinary Success |Founder of Food Art & Global Culinary Influencer |From Food Art to WorldSkills: The Chef Who Changed the Game |From Kitchens to Competitions: India’s Culinary Guide
A Vision Forged in Fire – The Legacy of Chef Vivek Saggar Begins
Chef Vivek Saggar – Culinary Mentor, Skill Developer, and Global Hospitality Leader
Discover the inspiring journey of Chef Vivek Saggar—founder of Food Art, WorldSkills India mentor, and recipient of the Silver Hat Award—on TopChefsBiography.org.
Chef Vivek Saggar, Indian culinary mentor, WorldSkills India chef, Food Art consultant, Indian Culinary Forum, chef profile India, topchefsbiography.com
In the heart of India’s most prestigious hotel kitchens, where heat, hustle, and harmony blend into a rhythm of culinary excellence, one name has stood the test of time and transformation—Chef Vivek Saggar. More than just a chef, he is a visionary, a mentor, and a national force whose legacy stretches far beyond the clatter of pots and pans. With over three decades of unwavering dedication, Chef Saggar has etched his story into the very soul of Indian hospitality and culinary education.
From the earliest stages of his career, Chef Saggar understood that the true power of food lies not just in taste but in technique, teamwork, and teaching. He embraced each role—not merely as a professional obligation but as an opportunity to learn, evolve, and lead. As he moved through the culinary hierarchies of India’s finest luxury hotels, he became known not just for his skill with sauces and spices, but for his sharp leadership, strategic foresight, and an almost spiritual connection to mentoring young talent.
But Chef Vivek Saggar’s legacy wasn’t formed in isolation. It was built in kitchens, classrooms, competitions, and conversations. It’s the legacy of a man who recognized the need to elevate India’s culinary landscape from within—by nurturing chefs who are not only technically brilliant but also emotionally grounded and globally competent. Through his entrepreneurial venture, Food Art, and his pivotal role at WorldSkills India, Chef Saggar has influenced thousands of careers, refined countless operations, and brought international prestige to the Indian food industry.
Today, his influence is felt everywhere—from televised cooking shows to university lecture halls, from national food festivals to global judging panels. His voice echoes in policy meetings, skill-building missions, and in the quiet confidence of young chefs competing abroad. Chef Saggar’s journey is a testament to vision, mentorship, and cultural pride, showing that when a chef believes in the power of knowledge and discipline, entire industries can be transformed.
This is not just the story of one man. It is the story of a movement. A movement forged in fire—and led by Chef Vivek Saggar, India’s guiding light in global culinary excellence.
Early Life in New Delhi – Where It All Started
Born in the bustling heart of New Delhi, Chef Vivek Saggar’s fascination with food began early. As a young boy, he wasn’t just drawn to the aromas that filled his home’s kitchen but to the science and soul behind each dish. Cooking, to him, wasn’t just an act—it was an act of expression.
His innate curiosity led him to the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Ahmedabad, one of the country’s most respected culinary schools. At IHM, Chef Vivek was exposed to rigorous training, classical techniques, and the ethos of culinary excellence. It was here that his vision expanded from being a good chef to becoming a great one—one who not only creates but leads.
Formative Years – Climbing the Ranks in India’s Top Hotels
Upon graduating, Chef Saggar’s journey into India’s top-tier hospitality scene began with stints at ITC Welcome Group, Hyatt Regency, and The Taj Group. These five-star properties were more than employers—they were his training grounds.
From sautéing in classical French kitchens to overseeing banquets for hundreds, Chef Vivek immersed himself in every facet of the culinary ecosystem. He learned the operational intricacies, the importance of consistency, and most importantly, the value of discipline and precision—two traits that would become hallmarks of his personality.
Entrepreneurial Spark – The Birth of Food Art (1988)
In 1988, driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to revolutionize India’s hospitality consulting scene, Chef Vivek founded Food Art—a culinary consultancy firm that would change the face of kitchen design and culinary project planning in India.
Food Art wasn’t just a business; it was a movement. With a sharp team of specialists, it provided technical support, menu innovation, kitchen infrastructure planning, and staff training to some of the most prestigious clubs, hotels, and restaurants across the nation.
Over the years, Food Art has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability, assisting clients in not just serving better food—but building smarter culinary systems.
Mentorship & WorldSkills – The Olympic Dream for Indian Chefs
Chef Vivek Saggar’s passion for mentorship led him to one of his most defining roles—Vice President – Competitions at WorldSkills India, operating under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.
Here, Chef Vivek became more than a chef—he became a national mentor, preparing young chefs to represent India at the prestigious WorldSkills Competition, the Olympics of vocational skills.
From 2017 to 2024, under his direction and rigorous training, Team India soared—bringing home Silver and Bronze Medals, along with Medallions of Excellence in culinary fields like:
- Confectionery
- Patisserie
- Cooking
- Hotel Reception
- Restaurant Services
- Bakery
His commitment, often involving 16-hour coaching days, personal sacrifices, and emotional investment, elevated India’s position globally in vocational and culinary excellence.
Culinary future—breaking stereotypes, sharing philosophies, and proving that Indian chefs can lead the global culinary conversation.
The Chef Behind the Jury Table – International Recognition
Beyond the kitchen and classroom, Chef Vivek Saggar has made his mark on the world stage as a respected jury member and culinary observer. With a reputation for fairness, depth of knowledge, and precision, he has been invited to judge some of the most prestigious international culinary competitions—becoming a global ambassador of Indian culinary excellence.
His judging credentials span across continents, including Battle of Chefs in Malaysia, where he assessed high-stakes culinary battles among elite chefs, and the International Beef & Noodle Competition in Taipei, showcasing Asia’s top culinary techniques. At the Pastry Queen Competition in Italy (2018), he evaluated some of the finest pastry talent from around the world, demonstrating his versatile palate and expertise beyond savory cooking.
Notably, Chef Vivek also played a vital role in Bocuse d’Or India in 2009 and 2011, a gateway to one of the world’s most esteemed chef championships. As Organising Secretary for Culinary Art India (2011–2016), he brought global culinary excellence to India, aligning local talent with international benchmarks.
Through these platforms, Chef Vivek is not merely a judge—he is a bridge between cultures, a promoter of skills, and a flagbearer for India’s rising culinary power.
Accolades & Awards – Celebrating a Trailblazer
Chef Vivek’s shelves are heavy with trophies, but each award tells a story of contribution, not just recognition:
- 🏅 Silver Hat Award – One of the highest honors by the Indian Culinary Forum
- 🏆 Outstanding Contribution to Skill Competitions – 20th Annual Chef Awards (2023)
- 🥇 Outstanding Contribution Award – Association of Hospitality Professionals (2014)
- 🥉 Bronze Medal – World Chef Battlefield, Malaysia
- 🎖️ Judge & Mentor – MasterChef India (Seasons 1, 2, and 3)
Lights, Camera, Cuisine – Chef Vivek in Media & Culinary Shows
Chef Vivek Saggar’s influence isn’t confined to kitchens. He has been a major figure in culinary media, combining education and entertainment through platforms like:
- Miditech Productions
- EAT – European Art of Taste
- Bharti Walmart’s Food Initiatives
- FOOD FOOD Channel
He conceptualized and hosted innovative food programs such as:
- 🎬 The Great Taste War
- 🎬 Ace of Taste
These shows combined creativity, competition, and content—offering home chefs, viewers, and culinary students insight into professional kitchens and modern gastronomy.
Collaborations & Culinary Product Innovation
Chef Vivek’s opinion is sought by top brands when it comes to food technology and consumer appliances. His advisory roles include partnerships with:
- Prestige TTK Air Fryer
- Philips Electronics India
- Tilda Riceland
- Amrit Foods
Through these collaborations, Chef Vivek has contributed to recipe development, appliance testing, and consumer guidance, proving that chefs today are as much scientists and educators as they are artists.
Consulting Footprint – Transforming Kitchens Nationwide
Chef Vivek’s culinary consultancy continues to empower F&B spaces of all scales. His consulting services have touched:
- Dana Choga Group of Restaurants
- The Club, Dehradun
- Amita’s Kitchen, Gurgaon
- Willy’s Finger Food
- Lovely Professional University (LPU)
From menu design to kitchen ergonomics, his holistic approach ensures every client receives more than a solution—they receive a system that thrives.
A Respected Voice – Chef Saggar in Print & Television
Chef Vivek Saggar has consistently used his platform to champion the culinary profession and skill development. His views and works have been featured on:
- The Indian Express, Hindustan Times
- Aaj Tak, Star News, CNBC Awaaz
- Hospitality Biz, Spiritz Magazine, Food Food TV
His bilingual presence (Hindi & English) ensures that his ideas reach not just elite chefs but grassroots students, entrepreneurs, and viewers across India.
Advocacy, Leadership & Culinary Policy
Chef Vivek plays a critical role in shaping India’s culinary future at a policy level. As:
- General Secretary – Indian Culinary Forum
- Active Member – Professional Chefs Association (India)
He is actively involved in developing industry standards, organizing national competitions, and ensuring that the culinary arts are recognized as a legitimate and prestigious profession by both government and society.
The Chef as a Humanitarian – Nurturing from the Heart
Chef Vivek’s mentorship is deeply personal. His students often speak not only of his knowledge but his empathy. Many of India’s top young chefs who have now taken on leadership roles credit Chef Vivek as their true guide, mentor, and motivator.
He believes every young chef has a spark. His goal? To turn that spark into a fire.
The Final Ingredient – Philosophy from the Chef’s Heart
“In the world of food, learning never stops. Every region, every cuisine, and every dish holds a new story waiting to be explored.”
– Chef Vivek Saggar
These words are not just a quote—they are a lifestyle for Chef Vivek. He continues to inspire, educate, and serve, reminding everyone that a chef is more than just a cook—a chef is a curator of culture, a craftsman of memories, and a leader of future generations.
Chef Vivek Saggar – Profile Snapshot
📍 Origin: New Delhi, India
🎓 Alma Mater: Institute of Hotel Management, Ahmedabad
🧑🍳 Founder: Food Art Consultancy
🌐 Role: Vice President – WorldSkills India (Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship)
🏆 Notable Awards:
- Silver Hat Award – Indian Culinary Forum
- Chef Awards 2023 – Skill Competition Contribution
- WorldSkills Medal Mentor
📺 TV Appearances:
- MasterChef India (Seasons 1–3)
- FOOD FOOD Channel
📚 Expertise:
- Culinary Mentorship
- Kitchen Design & Innovation
- Global Competition Training
- Hospitality Leadership
📢 Featured In:
- Hindustan Times
- Indian Express
- Star News
- Aaj Tak
- CNBC
- Hospitality Biz
- Food Food TV
A Culinary Architect of India’s Future
Chef Vivek Saggar’s journey is not just a celebrated biography—it is a living blueprint of what’s possible when skill meets purpose. His legacy is etched in every young chef he has mentored, every kitchen he has transformed, and every global competition where India’s flag has flown higher because of his vision.
He is not merely a chef; he is a culinary architect, designing the future of hospitality with the precision of a craftsman and the heart of a teacher. His story reflects the kind of leadership that transcends accolades—it inspires a movement. A movement where excellence is not optional, where education is power, and where every plate tells a story of pride, patience, and perseverance.
Whether it’s through his hands-on coaching for WorldSkills India, his pioneering work with Food Art, or his advisory roles across culinary institutions, Chef Vivek’s influence has become foundational to the country’s hospitality ecosystem. He doesn’t just create menus—he builds ecosystems. He doesn’t just train chefs—he shapes leaders.
In a rapidly evolving culinary world, his presence is a compass—anchoring traditions while embracing innovation. His work resonates globally, yet it remains deeply rooted in Indian values and hospitality.
Chef Vivek Saggar stands tall as India’s most influential culinary mentor, a man who has redefined what it means to lead, inspire, and serve through food. And even after three decades, his journey continues to unfold—one dish, one student, one revolution at a time.
Through every mentorship, competition, and consultancy, he isn’t just shaping careers—he’s shaping India’s culinary destiny.