The original judges from MasterChef Australia—Chefs Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris, and Matt Preston—are back in India, diving into the country’s rich culinary landscape with a new tour that’s generating plenty of buzz. Their journey, part of an exclusive collaboration with Conosh, has brought them to Chandigarh this week, where they’ve been indulging in local delights and street food.
The trio’s visit to Chandigarh, renowned for its vibrant food scene, began with a stop at Old Pal Dhaba, a celebrated local eatery known for its authentic Punjabi fare. At this beloved dhaba, they enjoyed a spread featuring regional classics like butter chicken, magaj (brain curry), kaleji (liver curry), and fresh parathas from the tandoor. The chefs savored every bite, clearly appreciating the rich, bold flavors that define Punjabi cuisine. “Food is not just a meal but a celebration of culture and community,” Mehigan noted.
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Their culinary exploration continued with a focus on Indian street food. Gary Mehigan indulged in an onion rava dosa for lunch, while the group visited Chhota Banaras, a hotspot for popular street snacks. Among the treats they sampled were pani puri, channa samosa, and chana tawa bhature—each offering a glimpse into Chandigarh’s diverse street food culture.
Beyond their food adventures, the chefs took time to explore Chandigarh’s sights and learn about its architectural history, designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. Their journey, which started in Hyderabad and will conclude in Bengaluru with an exclusive MasterClass next week, highlights their ongoing passion for discovering and celebrating new culinary experiences.
Throughout their visit, Mehigan, Calombaris, and Preston have showcased their culinary expertise and enthusiasm for Indian cuisine, making their trip a delightful and flavorful exploration of India’s rich food culture.
