In a recent episode of Hotline, hosts Sarah Jane Seddon and Sean Rush had an engaging conversation with Kali, an Indian chef who recently moved to Wellington. Kali shared his exciting journey from Gujarat, India, to New Zealand, his deep passion for food, and his experience adjusting to life in Wellington.

An Indian Chef in Wellington

Originally from Gujarat, India, Kali has been in Wellington for just a month. Despite being new to the city, he has quickly settled in. He is currently working at Carriza Place, a popular restaurant near St John. Kali talked about discovering new places and how Wellington’s vibrant food culture is influencing his culinary style.

Passion for Indian Cuisine

Kali’s love for Indian cuisine is evident, being an Indian chef. He described Indian food as rich in flavors and spices. He shared insights into the importance of masala and how he incorporates traditional flavors into his dishes. During the interview, he humorously mentioned cooking kangaroo, highlighting his flexibility and creativity in the kitchen.

Adapting to a New Culinary Scene as an Indian chef

Before moving to Wellington, Kali worked across Europe, including Sweden and Norway. These diverse experiences have shaped his cooking style, blending Indian traditions with international influences. Now, as an Indian chef in Wellington, he is excited about his family joining him soon and settling into his new life. He looks forward to exploring more of Wellington’s food scene and integrating his cultural background with local flavors.

Final Thoughts

The episode concluded with a light-hearted discussion about Kali’s love for cricket and his excitement for the future. Kali’s appearance on Hotline showed how random encounters can lead to engaging conversations. As an Indian chef in Wellington, Kali brings a fresh perspective to the city’s food landscape. His blend of heritage and new experiences adds a unique flavor to Wellington’s culinary scene.