Chef Vikas Khanna Wins Michelin Bib Gourmand Award, Says "I Continued To Be Bullied"

Chef Vikas Khanna penned a heartfelt note after his restaurant, 'Bungalow', was named among The New York Times' list of 'New York's 14 Best New Restaurants of 2024'.

Chef Vikas Khanna wins Michelin Bib Gourmand Award:

In an emotional social media post, he opened up about his journey, marked by challenges and resilience, to inspire the next generation. Talking about his journey, he mentioned how he chose a profession that was completely against the societal norms in the 1980s.

He Penned A Heartfelt Note:

He said, "To all those kids who are watching this moment, this is for you. I chose a profession that was completely against the norms in the 1980s. I continued to be bullied and shamed and let everyone laugh at the idea of a boy who didn't play sports but instead cooked, served, and knitted. I was invisible in the narrow streets and roofless kitchens of my small family business. I was quiet when all my business and dreams were demolished in front of my eyes. I kept silent when I was in a homeless shelter in New York."

Photo Credit: Instagram

"The Only Thing That Kept Me Going..."

He admitted that his mission for Indian cuisine was his greatest push. He added, "I accepted the darkest hours of losing my freedom and God's will to take away my best friend - my sister. I kept pushing. EVERY SINGLE DAY. The only thing that kept me going was a mission and vision to create a community around Indian cuisine."

Wishes Poured In:

"This moment of India's global domination is for YOU," Khanna concluded, celebrating the recognition of Bungalow as a testament to his vision and relentless spirit. His post has garnered lots of love and the comment section is filled with congratulatory messages. A user wrote, "Blessings of Sri Guru Ramdas ji and your hard work and dedication." Another commented, "Great post! Wishing you tons of continued success. Will make it out to Bungalow soon."

Earlier this week, Bungalow was also honored with the Michelin 2024 Bib Gourmand Award. Bungalow, launched in March 2024, has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking to savor authentic Indian cuisine in New York.