gpdm mediagpdm media

Chef Peter – Keeping the magic of traditional Goan food alive!

- Advertisement -

Chef Peter needs no introduction. Anyone who values authentic Goan food either has tasted chef Peter’s food or has heard about the fact that his place is the best to do so. Winner of many awards and accolades, this man who started his journey as a kitchen helper has come a long long way, but at heart he was, is and will always remain a true chef.

Tell us something about your journey.

In 1986 I finished my course in cookery and joined O’ Coqueiro. I started from scratch and worked as a kitchen helper at first. Within 6 months I was promoted to an assistant cook and then in 1989, I was made the head chef. I kept getting promotions, then in 2000 I moved to Bay 15 and worked there as the head chef. In 2016 I finally started my own kitchen and despite the hurdles and setbacks and even the Pandemic, I have no regrets. I am glad that I took the plunge and even if it’s been hard, it’s totally worth it.

- Advertisement -

When did you decide to become a chef?

When I was in school I used to help my mother in the kitchen and try my hand at cooking and whatever I made was really appreciated by everyone which motivated me to pursue cooking as a career.

What is your signature dish? What do people love about it?

My signature dish is chicken cafreal and in veg, it has to be veg xacuti, they are really appreciated by everyone. The best thing people love about it is that I cook it in a very authentic way.

- Advertisement -

What is your favourite dish and why?

My favourite dish is the traditional prawn curry or fish curry which I love preparing.

Name 3 kitchen tools you can’t do without.

Knife kitchen duster and spoon

 What other chefs do you admire?

First and foremost it’s my mother, then my wife and Mr Gines Viegas from whom I learnt a lot at O’ Coqueiro.

What’s your favourite cuisine?

Without being biased, it is Goan.

How do you control the quality and consistency of dishes to ensure customer satisfaction?

I make limited quantities and use only fresh ingredients to ensure that the quality is maintained.

What is the uniqueness of Goa you admire?

I love the culture and tradition of Goa and I have tried to keep it alive by reviving some old forgotten recipes like the traditional stew and samarachi kodi that used to be served only during wedding ceremonies.

Which hotels or restaurants in Goa do you personally like visiting for a foodie indulgence?

I prefer visiting small and cosy restaurants which give a very homely vibe. One of my favourites is Shanta Durga in Porvorim, his bhaji pav is something I really enjoy.

When did you plan to start your own restaurant?

The belief of my customers in my food led me to think of opening up my own restaurant. When I shifted from O’Coqueiro to Bay 15, my customers would patronise me and travel up to 16km for my food. This is what encouraged and inspired me to use one of my properties to open my own kitchen.

Where do you see yourself  5 years from now?

My focus for the future is not really on expanding or making a bigger place but to continue running this restaurant and keep serving Goa’s authentic food. It’s my dream for the world to see Chef Peter’s Kitchen as the most traditional and authentic Goan food restaurant.

AditI Malhotra
AditI Malhotrahttps://foodandhospitality.incrediblegoa.org/
Having covered more than 1000 restaurants and hotels across the country and globe, Aditi found her passion for food and traveling right in her childhood. At a later stage, traveling for work only fuelled this passion further and she started documenting her experiences as a food and lifestyle blogger 12 years ago and since then there has been no looking back!

Related Stories

Discover

IST Seltzer- Taking healthy drinking for a concept to...

Discover IST Seltzer, India's innovative and healthy hard seltzer with only 99 calories, 2 grams of sugar, and 5% ABV. Learn why Krupa & Kunal Shah chose this refreshing beverage for mindful drinking and their plans for its expansion in the Indian market.

Discover the World’s Hidden Gems in ‘The Great One...

Experience the world's finest in a bottle with 'The Great One Sun' Whisky by Cheers Group. This International Blended Whisky combines Scotch Malts, Bourbon, and more for a unique, creamy, and honeyed delight. Embark on a global journey of flavor.

Launch of India’s First Co-Brand Hotel Credit Card by...

Experience unparalleled travel rewards with the inaugural Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card – India's first co-branded hotel credit card. Elevate your journeys with exclusive benefits, Marriott Bonvoy points, and seamless access to a world of travel privileges

Experience The Unity of Flavors at Aikyam Onam Festival...

Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebration of Onam at the Aikyam Onam Festival in Holiday Inn Candolim. Experience the unity of flavors through Kerala's culinary heritage curated by Gita Hari. Join us for a cultural journey that goes beyond taste, celebrating togetherness and harmony. Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience.

Sandeep Kaul Appointed as Director of Operations at Goa...

Meet Sandeep Kaul, the new Director of Operations at Goa Marriott Resort and Spa. With 18+ years of hospitality expertise, he aims to elevate guest experiences and optimize resort operations. Discover his vision for excellence and commitment to exceptional service.

Unmasking the Dangers of Processed Food and Sugary Drinks:...

Discover the hidden threats lurking in processed food and sugary drinks. Learn about the obesity epidemic, artificial additives, nutritional deficiencies, and increased risk of chronic diseases associated with these culprits. Take control of your health by making informed choices and embracing a balanced, whole-food lifestyle.
Advertisement

Popular Categories

Comments

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.