Shilarna Vaze, often fondly called Chef Chinu, stands as one of India’s most vibrant culinary personalities. Known for her colorful aesthetic, infectious energy, and creative approach to food, she has built a distinctive presence that bridges the gap between professional cooking and accessible home-style recipes. Shilarna’s journey reflects a blend of global training and deeply rooted Indian sensibilities, making her a key voice in contemporary Indian cuisine and food culture.
Originally from Goa, Shilarna’s love for food emerged early, shaped by the region’s diverse gastronomic heritage and the lively culinary traditions of her family. Her passion eventually led her to train professionally, studying at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu in London. This classical foundation provided her with techniques and discipline, but it was her innate creativity and curiosity that truly set her apart. From there, Shilarna went on to explore kitchens around the world, absorbing influences and styles that now feature subtly in her cooking.
Her professional life took shape in multiple dimensions. Along with her husband, Nachiket Barve, a celebrated fashion designer, Shilarna co-founded a stylish catering company called The Back Kitchen, which has become known for its fresh, playful menus and beautifully presented dishes. Whether it’s a private dinner or an event for well-known personalities, Shilarna brings an artistic touch that transforms food into an experience. Her approach emphasizes local ingredients, reinterpretation of traditional flavors, and plating that feels both modern and inviting.
Yet Shilarna’s influence stretches beyond the kitchen. She has made her mark as a media personality, food stylist, content creator, and cookbook author. Her television appearances, especially as the charming, relatable host of cooking shows, introduced her to audiences who appreciate her fun and approachable style. In a landscape where many chefs portray culinary arts as complex or rigid, Shilarna encourages experimentation and joy. Her online content, often sprinkled with humor and authenticity, showcases recipes, lifestyle tips, and glimpses into her life as a chef, mother, and entrepreneur.
Fashion and design have also played a subtle but meaningful role in her identity. Growing up in a creative environment and sharing life with a fashion designer has influenced her signature visual flair. From colorful hair and bohemian outfits to elegant table settings and bold plating, Shilarna embodies a lifestyle where food, art, and self-expression naturally intertwine. It’s this blend that differentiates her as not just a chef, but a cultural personality.
At the heart of her work lies a commitment to balance, between
professional and personal life, between traditional and modern flavors, and
between joy and mindfulness. Shilarna Vaze has championed the idea that cooking
is not merely a task, but a form of storytelling and connection. Her journey
reflects a constantly evolving creative spirit, one that continues to inspire
home cooks, aspiring chefs,
and anyone who believes in living life with flavor and flair.
