Avinash Shashidhara departs Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai

Avinash Shashidhara has announced his departure from Fitzrovia restaurant Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai after five years.

In a video posted to social media the chef said: “After five wonderful years working at Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai I’ve decided to move on.”

He thanked the restaurant’s investors and the wider team before wishing them continued success.

The chef also expressed his appreciation to guests, family and friends. He added: “It’s been an honour cooking for you all.”

Shashidhara, who has previously worked at restaurants including Claude Bosi’s Hibiscus and the River Café, said he would now take a break from the stove.

The chef oversaw the opening of Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai in 2020 as head chef, serving traditional regional Indian dishes. The restaurant was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2022.

Michelin’s inspectors had said: “Dishes are confidently executed, easy to eat and full of fresh, regionally inspired flavours.”