“It is safe to say cooking has always been my passion. I vividly remember watching my mom rule over the kitchen with her aromatic recipes. I was quite captivated by how food could bring joy to people. Although, I wasn’t allowed near the gas stove back then, I used to adamantly venture in and experiment with different vegetables, meat and ingredients. My entire family would appreciate the taste of my food. Perhaps it was no surprise to them when I announced that I wanted to do something on the lines of cooking.

Initially, I worked at a Chinese restaurant. I thoroughly enjoyed making customised Indo-Chinese food for my customers. One of my most loyal customers at that place was the Shawarma company owner that I am currently working for. One day, he proposed the idea of me working for his Shawarma joint. I was quite taken by the idea and also the respect he showered upon me. My father was hesitant at first but I took it up anyway. The thought of transitioning from being an Indo-Chinese chef to a Shawarma maker was quite endearing. Earlier, only a few people in Andhra Pradesh knew about Shawarma but now it is one of the most popular delicacies in the state.

In fact, I designed my own Shawarma recipe called the Italian Shawarma. Little did I know it would go on to become the fastest and best-selling order! I feel extremely blessed and humbled. I can’t thank the owner enough for entrusting me with the cooking authority at his place, and encouraging me to come up with my own versions of recipes.

My friends come here often because they are quite besotted with the food we make. My mom is only into traditional food, but my dad enjoys my Shawarma once in a while. The smiles on people’s faces after eating my food is my ultimate reward!”