Renowned for his innovative approach and contributions to Pune’s burgeoning culinary scene, Chef Anirban Dasgupta, the Director of Culinary at Conrad Pune, is making waves with his global-inspired gastronomic experiences. In an exclusive interview with Slurrp, Chef Anirban sheds light on his journey and the significant impact he’s making on Pune’s food culture.
Al Di La: A Culinary Marvel in Pune
At the heart of Chef Anirban’s culinary showcase is Al Di La, Conrad Pune’s iconic rooftop restaurant. Recently featured in the Gods of Gourmet show on Disney+ Hotstar, Al Di La stood out as one of Pune’s finest dining establishments. With a panoramic view of the city, live musical performances, and an authentic Italian menu, the restaurant has become synonymous with culinary excellence.
Reflecting on the show, Chef Anirban expresses, “The documentary was definitely the highest point in my culinary career spanning 22 years. It beautifully captured my journey of breaking the mould and showcased our commitment to sustainability at Al Di La. This spotlight on our culinary endeavors reinforces our dedication to providing a unique dining experience.”
Innovating at Al Di La: A Glimpse into the Future
Al Di La, celebrating its two-year anniversary, is not just about the present; it’s about pushing culinary boundaries in the future. Chef Anirban reveals exciting plans for 2024, emphasizing an innovative approach that takes Pune’s dining experience to new heights. Acknowledging Chef Tapas Manna’s contribution at Al Di La, Chef Anirban credits the entire team for their relentless effort in maintaining excellence.
Chef Anirban’s Culinary Journey: Kolkata to Pune
The culinary virtuoso’s journey from Kolkata to Pune, highlighted in Gods of Gourmet, narrates a tale of passion and destiny. With a background shaped by the vibrant food culture of Kolkata, Chef Anirban found his calling in hotel management and eventually Italian cuisine. As a Bengali expertly crafting regional Italian delicacies, Chef Anirban bridges the culinary gap, infusing his creations with a distinctive Indian touch.
Speaking about his connection to Italian cuisine, Chef Anirban states, “Over the last 22 years, I have traveled 14 cities across India to find my real calling in food, Italian with a definitive voice of my own expressed through my local roots and love for artisanal Indian produce.”
Pune’s Culinary Evolution: A Chef’s Perspective
Chef Anirban recognizes Pune’s transformative culinary evolution during his six-plus years in the city. The once beer-centric scene has evolved into a dynamic culinary landscape that embraces experimentation and surprises. He notes, “Pune has grown leaps and bounds over the past six-plus years I have been part of this city. Now, the diaspora has experimental spaces which evoke emotions, food that surprises, and beverages that push the boundaries. It’s truly on the verge of arriving and taking on the relatively bigger cities, and it’s a great time to be in the midst of this revolution.”
