Vinod Singh Pundeer: A Culinary Maestro Blending Tradition with Innovation

Vinod Singh Pundeer: A Culinary Maestro Blending Tradition with Innovation

Vinod Singh Pundeer, an acclaimed Indian chef, has dedicated his life to elevating the culinary experience by harmonizing traditional Indian flavors with global techniques. With over two decades of experience in top-tier kitchens across India and abroad, Chef Pundeer is recognized not just for his cooking, but for building restaurant legacies. As of February 2023, he serves as a chef at Paisley Restaurant in Manhattan, New York, where he continues to bring authentic Indian flavors to the heart of one of the world’s top culinary capitals.

The Culinary Roots

Born on 2 February 1974, Chef Pundeer’s journey began with a deep dive into culinary education. He completed one year of industrial training at the prestigious ITDC Ashoka Hotel, followed by two years of practical job training at Hotel Claridges Naini Restaurant in Nainital. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for a career steeped in discipline, technique, and regional understanding.

From India to the Middle East: Building Expertise

Chef Pundeer held foundational roles at establishments like The Claridges Corbett Hideaway and later expanded his expertise internationally with culinary leadership roles in Kuwait. At Sheraton Hotel & Towers Kuwait (Bukhara), he was responsible for fine dining operations and buffet banquets, and at Winner’s Restaurant, he managed kitchen operations for daily service and events.

The Moti Mahal Chapter: Leading Culinary Expansion

From 2007 to 2013, Chef Vinod Singh Pundeer served as Corporate Chef for Moti Mahal Delux Tandoori Trail, launching and managing outlets in key Indian cities such as Jaipur, Lucknow, Bangalore, Bhopal, and internationally in Dubai and the Maldives. He continued this trajectory with Moti Mahal Delux Legendary Culinary from 2013 onward, playing a vital role in restaurant launches across Vrindavan, Ranchi, Amritsar, Srinagar, Muzaffarpur, and more.

Managing teams of 25+ chefs, he developed new menus, implemented regional food strategies, and optimized budgeting, inventory, and food quality systems.

Present Role: Paisley Restaurant, Manhattan, New York

By February 2023, Chef Pundeer had taken on a prominent role at Paisley Restaurant in Manhattan, New York, a refined Indian dining destination known for combining classical recipes with modern flair. At Paisley, he is responsible for crafting signature dishes, leading kitchen operations, mentoring staff, and ensuring the highest standards of hygiene and taste.

His move to Manhattan has brought him to the forefront of the global culinary stage, allowing him to showcase the depth and diversity of Indian cuisine to an elite and international audience.

Professional Expertise

Chef Vinod Singh Pundeer brings a wealth of experience across:

• Authentic Indian meal preparation

• Menu innovation and food styling

• Fine dining and banquet management

• Pre-opening restaurant operations

• Staff mentoring and kitchen team leadership

• Inventory control and cost management

• Compliance with U.S. food safety standards

A Culinary Ambassador for Indian Cuisine

A Culinary Ambassador for Indian CuisineChef Pundeer’s journey reflects a passion not just for food, but for sharing culture through cuisine. From India’s heartland to the global stage in Manhattan, New York, he has proven that great food speaks a universal language.