Bangaloreans venturing into more tasting avenues: Chef Gustavo Maurelli

They see the city through different eyes and don’t always think the same way as Indian chefs do. Chef Gustavo Maurelli shares his experiences with India, Bangalore to be exact, as they unfold their culinary tales in the city…

When did you come to Bangalore and how were the initial weeks like?
I came to Bangalore over a year back. The change from Middle East to India did not affect my lifestyle much because I put the opening of The Sheraton Hotel in Bangalore above everything else. Plus, since I’ve worked with reputed hotels in the Middle East for nearly 10 years, I was already accustomed to the Indian culture, thanks to the Indian population in the Middle Eastern countries.

Did you have to change your style of cooking a lot to suit the Indian palate?
I believe in what I do, which I think is very important when it comes to cooking for any audience. Therefore, to make my cooking palatable, I have to keep my perspective in place. I don’t change my style of cooking; rather I emphasise more on the quality of food procured for the dishes. Plus, I respect my food. I don’t think I’d Indianise food either; instead I’d much rather serve a particular cuisine the way it’s meant to be.

What is the typical demand of most Bangaloreans from your menu?
Most Bangaloreans look forward to a vegetarian menu. In fact, we even have an extravagant buffet catering just to that category of diners.

What is your perception of Bangaloreans dining out, in comparison to where you are originally from?
Italians eat in a very different way. We eat in courses. In Bangalore, people do not eat cold starters, while in Italy we pay more attention to the quality of products. Italians believe in not overpowering the food with spices. Rather, spices compliment the food and hence, the Italians like the food less spicy and with a subtle flavour.

Is there a trend you see in the pattern of what Bangaloreans want to eat or drink?
Change is inevitable and I have to say that Bangaloreans are beginning to venture into more tasting avenues. There are many more wine tasting and food tasting ceremonies in Bangalore than previously. Indians are starting to love the Italian style of cooking as well as the Arabian trends of cooking and cuisines, which have become trendsetters in recent days.

What is your signature dish?
I’d say it’s the Tiramisu; it’s also my wife’s favourite! On a serious note, the Tiramisu has received great response from those who’ve eaten it.