Representing Kanishka on Great British Menu
Kanishka by Atul Kochhar, the acclaimed pan-Indian restaurant in Mayfair, is delighted to announce that Executive Chef Ashok Kumar was selected to compete on BBC’s Great British Menu 2024, as part of the London and Southeast England region.
Presented by Andi Oliver, and airing on BBC Two and iPlayer at 8pm on Tuesday 6th, Wednesday 7th, and Thursday 8th February, this year’s competition theme celebrates the upcoming Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. The culinary contest culminates in a banquet hosted by the British Ambassador to France and Team GB, wishing the British athletes the best of luck.
Competing Among the Nation’s Best Culinary Talents
Regular judges include Michelin-starred, previous two-time banquet winner, Tom Kerridge, restaurateur Nisha Katona and comedian and food podcast broadcaster, Ed Gamble.
More information on Chef Ashok Kumar’s involvement, the dishes he prepares and his placing in the competition to be shared in the coming weeks.
Meet Executive Chef Ashok Kumar
Chef Ashok Kumar has honed his craft in the kitchens of numerous prestigious establishments. After receiving a diploma from the Chandigarh Institute of Hotel Management, he began his career as a commis chef with Taj Hotels and Palaces, Hilton, and Crowne Plaza. He later joined Chef Atul Kochhar’s Indian Essence as Junior Sous Chef, steadily working his way up to Executive Chef. Showcasing his exceptional talent, he has held Sous Chef and Head Chef positions at Michelin-starred Benares, reached the finals of the National Chef of the Year 2022, and secured victory in the Lumina Challenge 2023.
Elevating Pan-Indian Fine Dining
In his role as Executive Chef at Kanishka, Chef Ashok is instrumental in curating our seasonal menus. He flawlessly executes the outstanding, contemporary Pan-Indian dishes that our guests have come to expect, upholding our reputation for culinary excellence and continuously pushing the boundaries of modern Indian gastronomy.

Experience Kanishka by Atul Kochhar
Situated in the heart of Mayfair, Kanishka by Atul Kochhar is an acclaimed dining destination dedicated to exploring the rich, diverse flavours and vibrant cultural heritage of India.
A Journey Through the Unexplored Sister States
Guided by the visionary Chef Atul Kochhar and Executive Chef Ashok Kumar, Kanishka offers an unforgettable gastronomic journey. We proudly spotlight the exquisite, lesser-known delicacies of India’s Sister States, presenting a symphony of signature dishes crafted with unparalleled British produce and authentic regional spices.




