Chef Dipender is the Director - Culinary & Dining at Qutab Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., leading
the European fine-dining restaurant QLA, Mehrauli. Formerly the Corporate Executive Chef at
Belcibo Hospitality, Chef Dipender now heads not only the culinary direction but also plays
a key leadership role in overall restaurant operations.
His core philosophy lies in using fresh ingredients, elevating every dish with equal focus
on presentation, flavour, and nutrition. For him, cooking is not just a craft—it’s a
spiritual journey.
Dipender began his career with Hyatt Gachibowli, Hyderabad and trained under French chef
Jean Claude Fugier, honing classical French techniques and Mediterranean flavour profiles.
He later worked with German chef Lars Windfuhr and then joined Oceania Cruise Lines, working
at “Jacques” – a fine-dining concept by celebrated French chef Jacques Pépin.
After returning to India, he joined The Olive Kitchen & Bar before becoming an integral part
of QLA, where his leadership expanded with the company’s foray into Avataara, a destination
resort in Goa.
His signature style emphasizes working with local and lesser-known ingredients like
fiddlehead ferns, celeriac, moringa, and parsnip, creating unique flavour experiences.
Inspired by Massimo Bottura’s food philosophy and social work, Dipender champions
creativity, mindfulness, and purpose-driven cooking.
As the chef-lead behind QLA, Dipender not only curates an evolving European menu but also
oversees dining operations with a keen eye on guest experience, innovation, and team
mentorship.
His signature dish – Smoked Duck with raspberry jus, caramelized fennel, pumpkin-fennel
purée, and fig jam – continues to be a crowd favourite and a testament to his finesse.
IRC PASS