Pooja Dhingra is a renowned Indian pastry chef, entrepreneur, and author, often hailed as the "Macaron Queen of India." She is the founder of Le15 Patisserie, a chain of French-style patisseries based in Mumbai, known for introducing macarons and other French desserts to the Indian market.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 5, 1986, in Mumbai, Pooja comes from a family with a culinary background; her father and brother are restaurateurs. She initially pursued law but soon realized her passion lay in the culinary arts. This led her to study hospitality and management at César Ritz Colleges in Switzerland, followed by a pastry diploma from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. It was during her time in Paris that she developed a love for macarons, inspiring her to bring them to India.

Career

In 2010, at the age of 23, Pooja launched Le15 Patisserie in Mumbai, named after the 15th arrondissement of Paris where she lived during her studies. Starting with just two employees, the patisserie has grown significantly, now boasting multiple outlets across Mumbai and a central kitchen. Le15 offers a variety of desserts, including macarons, cupcakes, cakes, and tarts, blending French techniques with Indian flavors like chai, rose, and saffron.

Beyond her patisserie, Pooja has authored several cookbooks, including "The Big Book of Treats," "The Wholesome Kitchen," and "Coming Home." She also hosts a podcast titled "#NoSugarCoat," where she discusses entrepreneurship and personal stories with various guests. In 2023, she joined the judging panel of "MasterChef India" alongside chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar.

Awards and Recognition

Pooja's contributions to the culinary world have earned her numerous accolades. She was featured in Forbes India's "30 Under 30" list in 2014 and the Forbes Asia "30 Under 30" list. Her debut book, "The Big Book of Treats," won second place at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. Additionally, she has been recognized as an INK Fellow for her entrepreneurial achievements.

Personal Life

Pooja is known for her close associations with Bollywood celebrities and has crafted desserts for high-profile events, including weddings of prominent figures like Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. She is active on social media platforms, sharing insights into her culinary creations and entrepreneurial journey.

For more information, you can visit her official website or follow her on Instagram and Twitter.