Tête-À-Tea With Sachin Pabreja: From The Chef’s Table To The Boardroom — An Exclusive Interview With Chef Manoj Rai, CEO Of Punjabi By Nature

With nearly two decades of culinary mastery under his belt, Chef Manoj Rai has risen to become the new CEO of Punjabi by Nature. His journey, from crafting dishes in the kitchen to leading the boardroom, is a story of passion, creativity, and business savvy. Chef Manoj’s reputation for blending culinary innovation with strategic leadership has made him a force to be reckoned with in the food and hospitality industry. His ability to pivot from a celebrated chef to a seasoned operations executive underscores his relentless pursuit of growth and excellence across multiple domains. Join me as I engage in a captivating discussion with the talented Chef Manoj Rai about his journey from a skilled chef to a seasoned hospitality leader and corporate strategist for Punjabi by Nature.

1. What motivated you to take on the CEO role at Punjabi by Nature?

Manoj Rai: Punjabi by Nature has a long-standing legacy, and I saw an exciting opportunity to help it evolve while keeping its rich history alive. With my experience in both the culinary world and business, I was motivated to bring a fresh perspective to the brand, upgrading it to suit modern tastes while maintaining the essence of Punjabi culture.

2. How do you plan to integrate your culinary experience into the brand's vision?

Manoj Rai: My culinary background is essential to the brand’s evolution. We’ve upgraded the food menu to combine traditional Punjabi flavors with modern trends. Additionally, we’ve revamped our beverage menu by offering a modern twist on cocktails and mocktails, making sure they complement our food while appealing to today’s consumers. It’s about creating a complete experience—food, drinks, and ambiance—that’s both authentic and innovative.

3. What are the key elements of Punjabi culture and cuisine that you aim to highlight through Punjabi by Nature?

Manoj Rai: Punjabi culture is vibrant, bold, and welcoming, and we want to reflect that. Through our upgraded interiors and ambience, we’ve embraced a more modern look without losing the warmth and energy of Punjab. On the menu, we’ve kept classic dishes but also introduced lighter, modern options. Even our cocktails and mocktails now have a modern flair, using innovative ingredients and techniques that still honor Punjabi flavors.

4. Can you share any innovative ideas or initiatives you have in mind for the brand?

Manoj Rai: We’ve introduced a modern approach across the board—from the interiors to the food and even the drinks. The updated cocktail and mocktail menu is designed to offer unique, refreshing options that appeal to today’s diners. We’re also working on interactive dining experiences where customers can engage with the chefs and learn more about the rich heritage behind the dishes and drinks.

5. How do you envision the role of Punjabi by Nature in promoting Punjabi heritage to a broader audience?

Manoj Rai: We want to show that Punjabi culture can evolve while staying true to its roots. By updating the restaurant’s look and feel, and modernizing the menu, we’re making it more appealing to a broader audience, including younger generations. Our goal is to share the vibrancy of Punjab in a way that resonates with today’s diners, both locally and globally.

6. What challenges do you anticipate in revitalizing traditional Punjabi cuisine for modern consumers?

Manoj Rai: The challenge is balancing tradition with modern tastes. People want lighter, healthier options without losing the essence of Punjabi food, which is known for its bold, hearty flavors. We’ve updated our menu to include dishes that are both authentic and suited to modern dietary preferences, creating a fresh, balanced dining experience.

7. How important is community engagement for Punjabi by Nature, and what strategies do you plan to implement?

Manoj Rai: Community engagement is key to keeping the spirit of Punjabi by Nature alive. We plan to continue participating in cultural events and festivals while also focusing on online engagement with our customer base. We’re looking at hosting events that highlight Punjabi food and culture, making it more accessible to a wider audience.

8. What role do you see for sustainability and ethical sourcing in your culinary practices at Punjabi by Nature?

Manoj Rai: Sustainability is a growing focus for us, especially as we modernize the brand. We’re sourcing ingredients from local, sustainable farms and looking at ways to reduce waste in the kitchen. We’ve also made updates to ensure that our food preparation methods are more eco-friendly, aligning with the expectations of today’s conscious diners.

9. How will your previous experiences in the hospitality industry influence your leadership style at Punjabi by Nature?

Manoj Rai: My experience has taught me to value innovation and adaptability. At Punjabi by Nature, I’m fostering a creative, forward-thinking environment where we’re not afraid to modernize. We’ve already made changes to the menu, interiors, and even the cocktail and mocktail offerings. I believe in empowering the team to think creatively and deliver exceptional experiences for our guests.

10. What message do you hope to convey to consumers about the significance of Punjabi culture and cuisine?

Manoj Rai: Through the updates to the menu, interiors, and overall experience, we want to show that Punjabi culture is timeless. While we’ve modernized the look and feel, the heart of the food and the warmth of Punjabi hospitality remains the same. Our message is that tradition can evolve and still be just as meaningful in today’s world.

As Chef Manoj Rai continues to steer Punjabi by Nature toward new horizons, his story serves as a reminder that passion, innovation, and an eagerness to evolve can lead to remarkable success. His seamless transition from chef to CEO exemplifies how blending culinary artistry with business acumen can redefine leadership in the hospitality industry.