Mumbai: Mayor felicitates Novotel’s Executive Chef for his notable contribution in the culinary field

Mumbai's iconic hotel Novotel's, located at one of the city's plush area in Vile Parle near Juhu Beach, Executive Chef Jerson Fernandes has been recognized by the Mayor Kishori Pednekar for his valuable contribution to the culinary field.

Passionate about his profession, Chef Jerson is a stalwart in integrating innovative ways of art and the science of cooking. He strongly believes that food is an experience, and what is cherished is more than just a menu or a restaurant, it is creating gastronomical delight in every experience through a blend of intrinsic flavours, local touch and creative plating. 

Another recognition of Chef Jerson’s outstanding performance, is him being awarded the prestigious Executive Chef of the Year Award at the Hotelier India Awards 2021 in the upscale to mid-market segment. The award is a testament of his high standard of professionalism, being a catalyst in driving change in the hospitality industry and aspiring younger professionals to follow their dreams and always aim higher. 

Speaking on this achievement, Chef Jerson, Executive Chef, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, adds, “I am extremely honoured and humbled to receive the Executive Chef of the Year Award at the Hotelier India Awards 2021 and be recognized by Smt. Kishori Pednekar, Mayor of Mumbai for my contribution to the industry. While I reflect on my journey, I believe preserving tradition, creating health and sustainable food menus, combined with variation has helped me achieve change in this space. I would like to take the opportunity to thank my mentors, colleagues, team, support staff and so many other who have encouraged me to follow my aspirations. The award is monumental in further exploring my career path, aligning my future actions through a collaborative transformation in 2022, where tenacity and originality will shape the future of gastronomy.”

Chef Jerson’s career has garnered multiple accolades, including holding the Guinness World Record for the largest number of bread varieties in 2020. He has worked with several Accor properties, namely, Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort, Novotel Hyderabad Airport and Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and has also been associated with P&O Cruises, Taj Hotels, Marriott Hotels and Los Angeles based Berggruen (Keys) Hotel. When not in the kitchen, Chef Jerson enjoys capturing moments and different food aspects through photography. He is passionate about travelling in search of great food.

Gorav Arora, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach, said, “We are truly proud of Chef Jerson and his remarkable efforts in spearheading change and innovation in the Food and Beverage space. His eagerness and willingness to constantly learn and implement new ideas to enhance dining and change the perspective of a regular meal into a memorable culinary experience, is what sets him apart. We are grateful for his immense contribution to our hotel and along with the entire team congratulate him on his achievement.”