Karishma Sakhrani has a fascinating backstory. A self-taught culinary consultant, Sakhrani first worked in a corporate role at Vogue, before transitioning to the culinary world after gaining prominence as a finalist on MasterChef India. Since then, Sakhrani has established herself, first as one of the most recognized chefs in India, and now in Dubai.
You’ve taken Indian cuisine and reimagined it through a lens of mindful indulgence. What inspired the vision behind Viceroy’s Table, and how did you bring it to life in Dubai?
Viceroy’s Table was born from a desire to celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage through a contemporary, mindful lens. I wanted to create something deeply nostalgic yet new, where familiar flavours meet modern finesse. Dubai, with its openness to bold culinary storytelling, felt like the perfect place to bring that vision to life.
Viceroy’s Table blends colonial-era opulence with bold, contemporary Indian flavours. How do you strike that balance between nostalgia and modernity on the plate?
The magic lies in that delicate dance between memory and surprise. We start with comforting, familiar Indian flavours, and then reimagine them with lighter techniques and artful presentation. Each dish is designed to evoke warmth while inviting guests to see something beloved in a new way.
You’ve described your cooking as both nutritionally rich and indulgently delicious. How do you approach that duality when designing a dish?
I truly believe that nutrition and indulgence don’t have to be opposites. I begin with the highest quality ingredients, focusing on natural flavours and balance. The result is food that feels luxurious and deeply satisfying yet still leaves you feeling nourished and light.
From Champaran Mutton to Kadak Chai Mille Feuille, your menu is full of surprises. What’s one dish that best captures your culinary philosophy?
Our Kadak Chai Mille Feuille perfectly embodies our approach, it’s a playful, surprising reimagination of classic Indian flavours using different techniques and forms. It sparks conversation and nostalgia all at once, which is exactly what I want every dish to do.
The restaurant draws inspiration from the Gymkhana clubs of yesteryear. How does that heritage influence the guest experience, from the menu to the ambience?
The Gymkhana clubs were all about quiet luxury, warmth, and community. We bring that spirit alive through an atmosphere that feels timeless, dim lighting, classic service touches, and a menu that feels like a journey across India. Guests feel like they’re stepping into a story rather than just a meal.
Chef’s Journey
From MasterChef India to Condé Nast and now to helming one of Dubai’s most exciting new restaurants, what’s been the most defining moment in your culinary journey so far?
While MasterChef India opened many doors, launching Viceroy’s Table has been the most defining moment for me. It challenged me to move beyond just cooking and step into stronger leadership, storytelling, and creating an immersive, multisensory experience.
You’ve worked across publishing, television, and now fine dining. How have those diverse experiences shaped your approach to food and storytelling?
Publishing taught me about the power of narrative, while television taught me to connect emotionally and instantly. Together, they have shown me that food is not just about taste, it’s about how it makes you feel and the stories it carries. That philosophy underpins everything I do at Viceroy’s Table.
You consult for top restaurants and food brands. What’s one lesson you always bring into every new collaboration?
The one lesson I always bring is that simplicity is powerful. When a concept is clear and focused, whether on the plate or in the brand story, it resonates more deeply and stands the test of time.
Leadership & Legacy: As the creative force behind Viceroy’s Table, how do you lead your team to deliver both consistency and creativity in such a high-concept space?
I believe in leading by example, being present, truly listening, and fostering a culture of curiosity. Consistency comes from discipline and respect for the craft; creativity thrives when the team feels safe to experiment and share. Both are vital to creating something memorable every single day.
What does luxury dining mean to you, beyond just the ingredients or the setting?
For me, luxury dining is all about intention. It’s not just about rare ingredients or grand interiors, it’s about creating connection, wonder, and a sense of belonging. It should feel deeply personal and leave you with a memory, not just a meal.
You’re known for championing sustainability and quality sourcing. How do those values show up in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant?
We obsess over our sourcing, from heirloom grains to seasonal vegetables and ethically raised meats. It’s on our menus, our minimal-waste approach, and our close relationships with suppliers. Sustainability is a daily choice that informs everything we do.
Quickfire: Just for Fun
It’s 1 a.m., you’ve just wrapped a long service, what’s your go-to comfort food?
Aglio e olio pasta with lots of garlic, chili, and a generous squeeze of lemon, bright, quick, and the perfect late-night pick-me-up.
You’re hosting friends at home and only have 30 minutes. What’s your “chef’s secret” dish that never fails to impress?
Perfectly seared salmon with a zesty citrus-herb salsa, surrounded by a table full of little mezze-style plates, dips, fresh salads, and lots of textures to keep it fun and shareable. Effortless, but it feels like a celebration.
Favourite hidden gem in Dubai, for coffee, a snack, or a quiet moment away from the kitchen?
Artisan Bakers feels like a little green oasis in the city, their croissants, playful pastries, and quiet garden vibe make it my favourite escape. I love going there to recharge, sip great coffee, and find small moments of joy between busy services.
