Atul Kochhar

Restaurant: Benares

Atul Kochhar has quite simply re-invented Indian cuisine. His unique talent as a twice Michelin starred chef has changed the way people perceive and experience his country's cuisine.

Kochhar was the first Indian chef to receive a Michelin star during his time at Tamarind, going on to open Benares, where his creative talents won a second Michelin star in 2007. His incredible ability to create such distinctive and rare dishes from all parts of the world has informed the menu of this highly acclaimed restaurant, which Jan Moir says, is "notable for the outstanding quality of the ingredients that the kitchen uses and the abundance with which they are served."

Kochhar's Benares remains a fixture on the Taste of Christmas line-up - a perennial favourite of the festival.