Conrad Pune, the flagship luxury hotel for Hilton Worldwide, announces Chef Pradeep Rao as its new Executive Chef. Chef Rao brings a wealth of experience to his new role and will be instrumental in shaping the culinary future of Conrad Pune.
Chef Rao boasts an impressive 17 years of culinary expertise. Having honed his skills in prestigious kitchens across India and the United States, he brings a deep appreciation for regional flavours and a well-established reputation for creativity. Chef Rao is set to be a valuable asset in shaping the future of Conrad Pune’s culinary scene.
His gastronomic journey began in 2007 with The Oberoi, Bengaluru. He then went on to refine his craft at esteemed establishments like the signature Italian restaurant, Prego at the Westin Hyderabad, and the Marriott Town Centre in Seattle, USA. Returning to India, he rejoined the Westin Hyderabad, rising through the ranks to become Head Chef at Prego. Chef Rao’s passion for food finds its roots in his Konkan heritage. Growing up along the Mangalore (Udupi) and Cochin coasts, he developed a deep appreciation for seafood and Kerala cuisine. A true connoisseur himself, Chef Rao is constantly inspired by local ingredients and regional specialities, transforming them into captivating dining experiences for his guests.
Commenting on the appointment, Abhishek Sahai, General Manager of Conrad Pune, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Rao to Conrad Pune. His extensive experience in renowned kitchens across India and the US, coupled with his deep understanding of regional flavours, makes him a perfect fit for our hotel. Chef Rao’s passion for fresh, local ingredients and his commitment to creating innovative dishes will undoubtedly delight our guests. We are excited to see him develop and empower our talented chefs, inspiring them to experiment with new flavours and techniques while staying true to our commitment to showcasing the best of Indian cuisine.”
“For me, every dish is a chance to tell a story,” says Chef Pradeep Rao, Executive Chef, Conrad Pune. “Simplicity is key, but the flavours should surprise and delight guests. Even a classic Indian meal like dal and rice can be elevated with the perfect ingredients and techniques. My goal at Conrad Pune is to build upon the success of their award-winning restaurants by showcasing a vibrant tapestry of regional Indian flavours for our discerning clientele. I’m thrilled to be part of the team and can’t wait to share my culinary passion with Conrad Pune’s guests.”
