At Brook & Pines, every dish and every drink has a story. But behind each story stands a passionate team of creators—our chefs and brewmasters—who bring imagination, technique, and heart to everything we serve. This blog takes you behind the bar and into the kitchen to meet the people who make Brook & Pines the culinary gem that it is.

Whether you’re sipping a smoky whiskey cocktail or digging into a comforting bowl of risotto, you’re tasting the vision and dedication of the people who make food not just a service, but an experience.

The Culinary Minds Behind the Menu

👨‍🍳 Chef Raghav Malhotra – Executive Chef

With over 15 years of experience in fine dining kitchens across India and Europe, Chef Raghav brings a bold fusion of global techniques and local ingredients to Brook & Pines. His philosophy is simple: “Cook with soul, serve with elegance.” His personal favorite? The Smoked Butter Chicken Risotto, a dish that perfectly represents his Indo-Italian twist on comfort food.

Signature Style:

• Minimalist plating with bold flavors

• Use of seasonal produce

• Global cuisines with a desi heart

Fun Fact: Chef Raghav is a trained jazz pianist and often says music inspires his cooking style.

Pastry & Dessert Specialist

Every dessert at Brook & Pines is a little work of art thanks to Chef Neha. From delicate Chai Latte Crème Brûlée to indulgent Hot Fudge Brownies with spiced orange zest, her creations balance creativity with nostalgia. She’s known for adding unexpected ingredients like pink peppercorn, lemongrass, or saffron to classic desserts, creating layers of flavor in every spoonful.

Signature Style:

• Fusion desserts with aromatic Indian ingredients

• Elegant presentation

• Freshly baked goods made daily

Fun Fact: Chef Neha once interned at a Michelin-starred patisserie in Paris.

Meet the Brewmasters: The Alchemists of the Bar

🍸 Arjun Mehra – Head Mixologist

Arjun is the brain behind Brook & Pines’ bold and inventive cocktails. With a background in molecular gastronomy and mixology, he loves surprising guests with drinks that not only taste great but also tell a story. Think cocktails with smoked herbs, foamed citrus, or syrups made in-house from foraged ingredients.

You may have already tried his signature “Misty Pine Mojito”, infused with forest syrup and garnished with fresh pine leaves.

Signature Style:

• Smoked cocktails and slow infusions

• Seasonal ingredients

• Storytelling through flavor profiles

Fun Fact: Arjun once curated a cocktail menu based on constellations and zodiac signs!

🍻 Vikram Sharma – In-House Brewer

When it comes to craft beers and small-batch brews, Vikram is your guy. With certifications in brewing science and a background in biochemistry, he experiments with hops, malts, and yeasts like a scientist—but always with the palate of a true artist. He’s behind our quarterly B&P Seasonal Brew, which features rotating craft beer styles that match the mood of the season.

This quarter’s highlight? A Rainy Ale brewed with lemongrass, ginger, and roasted barley—light, refreshing, and just a bit spicy.

Signature Style:

• Farm-to-glass brewing

• Local ingredient infusions

• Balanced, easy-to-pair beer profiles

Fun Fact: Vikram runs weekend “Brew Tours” at Brook & Pines, giving guests a peek into the brewing process.

The Teamwork That Makes the Dream Work

What makes the food and drinks at Brook & Pines truly special isn’t just the talent—it’s the collaboration. Our chefs and bartenders regularly team up to create food and drink pairings, special tasting menus, and seasonal culinary events that elevate the guest experience. Every dish is crafted to complement the drink, and every cocktail is designed to enhance the meal.

From brainstorming over breakfast to perfecting late-night tastings, the synergy between the kitchen and bar team ensures that what ends up on your table is a harmonious blend of flavor, creativity, and care.

Experience Their Craft Firsthand

We believe that food tastes better when you know the hands that made it. That’s why we host monthly “Meet the Makers” events, where guests can interact with our chefs and mixologists, watch live demonstrations, ask questions, and even sample exclusive off-the-menu creations.

Want to join the next session? Keep an eye on our Instagram and event calendar, or simply ask your server the next time you visit.

Final Pour

Behind every memorable moment at Brook & Pines is a team that’s passionate about their craft. Our chefs and brewmasters pour heart and soul into every plate and pour, ensuring that every guest walks away with more than just a meal—they take home an experience.

📍 Come say hello.
🍴 Taste the passion.
🍸 Raise a glass to the creators behind the magic.