Ashwin Vilkhu
Executive Chef of The Kingsway and Co-Executive Chef of Saffron
“I keep my team motivated by being on the job every day, working shoulder-to-shoulder with the team, leading by example, avoiding cursing, and treating everyone with dignity and respect.„
EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
Going back to school in 2014 for my master’s degree completely changed the way I think and was a turning point in my career.
During COVID, we adapted quickly to constant change to keep our ecosystem whole — it was a defining moment of resilience for our team.
I foster a caring team culture by providing good family meals and treating everyone with respect and dignity.
Being part of a team recognized with James Beard nominations for Best New Restaurant and Best Chef: South has been a true career highlight.
I can’t do my job without my laptop and my kniferoll.
I continue to educate myself by reading several cookbooks each year, traveling, and visiting other restaurants.
My family, team, and community are what inspire me to continue to work and excel in this industry.
Diversity pushes me to keep moving forward. There’s no time to sulk, just keep going!
Taking risks and believing in myself — and my family — helped me reach the leadership position I’m in today.
The most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is patience, patience, patience
I enjoy tuning into Chef’s PSA and reading Food & Wine, Travel & Leisure, and The New York Times.
To avoid burnout, I make time to work out, limit alcohol, and get plenty of rest.
I find inspiration through traveling, cookbooks, and memories
Grit is the most essential skill to have. The ability to take criticism and move on is absolutely essential.
When hiring, I look for attitude, demeanor, and confidence above all else. The rest can be taught.
A mentor once told me, ‘Those who sit on the ground have no fear of falling,’ and that’s stayed with me ever since.
Disclaimer: Individuals featured in the Inspirational Career Timelines section have been nominated by peers, colleagues and/or other members of the hospitality industry. It is to the best of our knowledge that each individual has demonstrated leadership and acted as a positive role model for others.
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