Great Chefs

Meet some of our Great Chefs

  • Rakesh Sharma
    Senior Development Chef

    Rakesh’s impressive career has taken him around the globe. He honed his skills at the Hyatt Regency in Delhi, spending ten years working his way up from apprentice chef and developing his expertise in Indian Cuisine.

    What do you like best about your job?

    Developing food recipes from around the world for big brands.

    What’s your favourite dish?

    Roasted Tandoori lamb leg with a jewelled rice.

  • Catherine Leahy
    Development Chef

    Catherine's enjoyed a variety of roles in her career, including running her own successful catering business for nine years. Before joining The Authentic Food Co Catherine was Head Chef at Arley Hall, running the restaurant and managing the weddings and functions side of the business.

    What do you like best about your job?

    Getting to try all the amazing dishes that are created in the NPD kitchen.

    What's your favourite dish?

    A classic Thai dish, chicken penang and Thai sticky rice.

  • Jay Jayaraman
    Senior Development Chef

    Jay is a chemistry undergraduate whose passion for cooking saw him move to a career in catering. He now has over 20 years’ experience in the catering industry, in multi-national hotel chains, restaurants and food manufacturing. He’s worked in three countries and with a diversity of cuisines, from American to Asian, Italian to Indian and Mexican to Middle Eastern. Consequently Jay is well-versed in a multitude of cooking styles and flavours!

    What do you like best about your job?

    At TAFC each day is different and brings in a new challenge, which keeps me motivated to do my best. The chef in me loves the way we work with quality ingredients and authentic cooking techniques - it makes TAFC stand out amongst rivals.

    What’s your favourite dish?

    Avial - a vegetarian stew seasoned with coconut oil and curry leaves that originates from South India.

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