Mumbai, July 14: Celebrating culinary excellence and visionary leadership, Chef Mohd Faisal Qureshi, Head Chef at Kangan Restaurant, The Westin Mumbai, has been honoured with the prestigious “The Most Inspirational Chef of the Year” award at the Maharashtra Excellence Awards 2026. The recognition celebrates his outstanding contribution to Indian gastronomy, his dedication to preserving authentic culinary traditions, and his ability to inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Widely respected for his expertise in North Indian, Mughlai, and Awadhi cuisine, Chef Faisal has earned admiration for blending timeless recipes with contemporary presentation while maintaining the highest standards of quality and guest experience. His culinary philosophy reflects a deep respect for India’s rich heritage, combined with innovation that appeals to modern diners.
As the Head Chef of Kangan Restaurant at The Westin Mumbai, Chef Faisal leads the restaurant’s culinary operations with a strong emphasis on authenticity, consistency, creativity, and operational excellence. Under his leadership, Kangan continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Mumbai’s premier destinations for refined Indian cuisine. Chef Faisal was appointed Head Chef at The Westin Mumbai in 2026 following more than 14 years of experience across leading hospitality brands in India and overseas.
Receiving the award, Chef Mohd Faisal Qureshi said:
“This recognition is a tremendous honour and a reflection of the dedication of my entire culinary team. Every dish we create tells a story of India’s rich culinary heritage while embracing innovation that enhances the guest experience. I am grateful to The Westin Mumbai for providing a platform that encourages creativity, excellence, and continuous learning. This award motivates me to keep inspiring young chefs and to continue elevating Indian cuisine on every plate we serve.”
The Maharashtra Excellence Awards 2026 recognize exceptional professionals and industry leaders whose achievements have created a lasting impact across various sectors, celebrating innovation, leadership, and excellence.
Chef Faisal’s latest recognition further reinforces his position among India’s leading culinary professionals. Through his commitment to craftsmanship, mentorship, and guest satisfaction, he continues to set new benchmarks in the hospitality industry while inspiring aspiring chefs to pursue excellence with passion, discipline, and authenticity.