"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
6 Oct 2025
The culinary world witnessed a historic moment at The Best Chef Awards 2025, where chefs from across the globe were celebrated for their innovation, artistry, and impact on gastronomy. Among the shining stars was Chef Himanshu Saini, the Executive Chef at Dubai’s renowned Tresind Studio, who was honoured as the third-best chef in the world. This recognition is not just a personal milestone for Chef Himanshu but a proud achievement for India and its rich culinary traditions. It comes shortly after Tresind Studio made history by becoming the first Indian restaurant in the world to win three Michelin stars, cementing its reputation as a global leader in fine dining.
Born and raised in India, Chef Himanshu Saini’s story is one of determination, curiosity, and an unshakable love for flavours. His journey began in Delhi, where he was inspired by the simplicity and depth of home-cooked Indian meals. Under the mentorship of celebrated culinary experts, he developed a strong foundation in classical techniques while nurturing a bold vision to redefine Indian cuisine for the world.
Early in his career, Himanshu made a name for himself through his creativity and discipline. He wasn’t content with simply replicating traditional dishes. Instead, he sought to reinterpret them, weaving together nostalgia, storytelling, and modern presentation. His move to Dubai opened new possibilities, and Tresind Studio became the perfect stage for his culinary artistry.
At Tresind Studio, Chef Himanshu Saini has built more than just a restaurant; he has created a culinary experience that narrates a story with every course. His multi-course tasting menus take diners on a sensory journey through India’s vast and diverse regions, each dish crafted to evoke emotion, memory, and wonder. Chef Saini blends tradition with innovation—turning familiar South Indian spices into modern creations through molecular gastronomy and giving North Indian flavours a global twist. His approach to cooking is simple yet deeply thoughtful.
At this year’s ceremony, Chef Rasmus Munk of Alchemist in Denmark was named the world’s best chef, while Chef Ana Ros of Hisa Franko in Slovenia took second place. Chef Himanshu Saini’s third-place ranking places him alongside the finest culinary visionaries of our time, proof that Indian cuisine now has global respect. In addition to this honour, Saini has previously received 3 Knives His recognition is not just for his food but also for his leadership, innovation, and contribution to sustainability in the kitchen.
Chef Himanshu has also represented Indian cuisine at international culinary events, where he showcases the diversity and depth of India’s regional cuisines. From London to Singapore, his pop-up experiences and guest chef appearances have received standing ovations. Through these global platforms, he continues to highlight the true spirit of Indian food and its balance of flavour, colour, emotion, and tradition.
By combining age-old recipes with modern presentation, he brings India’s culinary story to international audiences in a refreshing and elegant form. Beyond the awards and global recognition, Chef Himanshu Saini remains deeply rooted in humility. His story is a reminder that passion, creativity, and respect for one’s roots can transform dreams into reality. Colleagues describe him as a calm yet driven leader, someone who listens, mentors, and constantly seeks new inspiration. His success reflects a blend of technical mastery and emotional intelligence, where every dish carries a personal touch. In a world where food connects people across borders, Chef Himanshu stands as a symbol of innovation and pride for India, a chef who dares to dream and, in doing so, inspires millions to believe that flavour knows no boundaries.