The women behind the most famous Indian Bars and Restaurants

From experimental recipes to novel dining experiences, there's a lot of exciting new cooking on the food scene in India today. Just a stroll through Bandra will reveal a dizzying array of dining options far beyond the familiar haunts. And guess who's calling the shots? From introducing exotic flavours to revolutionising the way we eat and where our food comes from, India's culinary scene is experiencing a renaissance, and women are its driving force.

With more than one distinctive hospitality brand in their repertoire, four female-led businesses are serving success one incredible restaurant at a time. Perhaps they're even dreaming up a secret menu item as intense as the Carmy-inspired chaos of The Bear kitchen.

With season 4 of the FX show hitting out home screens in the summer of next year, we spotlight the women leading the best kitchens in the country, and also their tip to the chef-in-charge in the show on managing menus, teams, egos, creativity and commerciality. Take notes!

Drishleen Sethi, director and founder of Madam G and MASKAA

When it comes to reshaping the culinary landscape in Calcutta, Drishleen Sethi is a pioneering force. From deciphering customer cravings to conjuring up unexpected flavour combinations like Tuna Khakra and Salmon Raj Kachori, Sethi is the alchemist who turns everyday food into an extraordinary experience. The food entrepreneur truly believes in building customer relations by being present on the ground and helping her team, just like her culinary hero, Chef Carmy from The Bear. She wisely advises, "Listen to your team."

Gauri Devidayal; Co-founder, Food Matters Group

With over a decade in the food and hospitality industry, Gauri Devidayal stands as a true mogul in the field. Known for her personalised touch and being a hands-on leader, this culinary tastemaker believes in leading by example, whether she's at the pass or engaging with customers at a pop-up. From the exotic Bheja Ravioli to the Boudin Basque, her philosophy is simple: flavour trumps fanfare. And her tip to Chef Carmy? Stick to one menu.

Malini and Amalia Akerker, owner at Marāi

With over a decade in the food and hospitality industry, the Akerkar family stands as true moguls in the field. Their signature establishments—Indigo Delicatessen, Tote on the Turf, and Qualia—led by Chef Rahul and Malini Akerkar—have set a fine standard in the restaurant business. Now, in their first mother-daughter venture, Malini and Amalia Akerkar are bringing a unique fusion of kitchen, bakery, deli, store, and lab to Marāi, Goa.

Aditi Dugar; Founder, Masque

A champion of local produce and sustainability, give Aditi Dugar a few of your favourite kitchen ingredients, and she will whip them into a piece of tasteful delicacy. Dugar, who thrives on feeding, hosting, and crafting unforgettable dining experiences, has turned her passion for food into a restaurant empire. And her favourite part about The Bear? It's the realistic portrayal of chaos and beauty in the kitchen—something she knows all too well.

Here’s another list of LeMill favourites—women who are equally inspiring.

Minkashi Singh, Co-founder and owner at Sidecar, New Delhi

Minakshi Singh started her journey as a marketing manager and bartender, quickly making a name for herself in the industry. Today, she’s the powerhouse behind two of Delhi NCR’s most celebrated bars—Sidecar in Delhi and Cocktails & Dreams in Gurgaon. Both establishments have garnered multiple awards, cementing Singh’s status as one of the coolest women in India to own and run her own bar and speakeasy.

Mallyeka Watsa, Co-founder at Americano, and Otra, Mumbai

With over a decade of experience in food and client service, Mallyeka Watsa has carved her name as a true culinary tour de force in India. Leading the way with two standout restaurants—Americano and Otra in Mumbai—this visionary restaurateur is stirring up the scene, testing her secret sauce for success in India’s ever-evolving dining landscape.