Avi Shashidhara
Blending his southern Indian heritage with classical European training, Avi Shashidhara brings a fresh, produce-led approach to Indian cuisine that’s captivating critics, diners and viewers alike.
Born in Bangalore, Avi grew up surrounded by the flavours of Indian home cooking, learning early the importance of seasonality and sourcing ingredients at their peak. After studying hotel management at Christ University and interning with the Oberoi Hotel Group—where he discovered the fundamentals of French cookery—he pursued a kitchen career in the UK.
He first joined Claude Bosi’s two-Michelin-starred Hibiscus in Ludlow, gaining precision and discipline in a Michelin kitchen. At The Old Bridge Hotel, under Master of Wine John Hoskins, he deepened his understanding of hospitality and flavour. In 2008, Avi joined London’s legendary River Café, where he spent 11 years, rising to a senior role and absorbing its ethos of simplicity, seasonality and respect for ingredients.
In 2020, Avi became Head Chef at Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai in Fitzrovia, showcasing refined Indian dishes rooted in family recipes and British produce. His national profile grew on BBC’s Great British Menu in 2023, where he won the banquet starter course, and on Saturday Kitchen. Today, Avi is redefining Indian food in the UK.