SEEMA S I LVA

S h o w c a s i n g G o a ' s

Culinary Heritage at Fairfield by Marriott's Kava

Seema Silva, a Goan-specialty chef, has become a culinary ambassador for her state by showcasing its rich culinary heritage at Fairfield by Marriott's restaurant Benaulim, Kava. Her journey as a chef and her passion for serving guests authentic local flavors have made her an integral part of the culinary team at Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim. In this interview, Chef Seema shares her experiences, insights, and the essence of Fairfield by Marriott Benaulim,dining experience.

The Culinary Journey that Brought Her Home

Chef Seema Silva's culinary journey was guided by her love for Goa and a desire to make her state proud through its culinary offerings. "Serving guests authentic local food is the key to happiness and joy," she shares. This passion led her to become a chef and eventually join the prestigious Fairfield by Marriott team. When the opportunity arose to work for a company like Marriott, she seized it to fulfill her dream of showcasing Goan

Fairfield by Marriott Benaulim's Unique Culinary Offering

At Kava, Fairfield by Marriott Benaulim's all-day dining restaurant, the focus is on providing a balanced menu with a variety of options to cater to different dietary preferences and needs. Chef Seema ensures that every preparation leaving the kitchen is of the highest quality, from traditional favorites to local specialties. However, the uniqueness of Kava doesn't just lie in its culinary offerings but also in the positive dining experience it creates. The restaurant team, along with the chefs, strive to offer friendly and attentive service to enhance the overall guest experience.

Infusing Local Flavours for an Authentic Dining Experience

For Chef Seema, infusing local flavours and ingredients into the restaurant's menu is essential to provide guests with an authentic dining experience. The process involves actively engaging with local producers to source the freshest and most sustainable ingredients. By exploring the region's culinary traditions and creatively integrating them into the dishes, Chef Seema ensures that each plate reflects the essence of Goa, offering a truly authentic and memorable dining experience.

Memorable Dining Stories That Warm the Heart

One of Chef Seema's most memorable dining stories involves a couple celebrating their anniversary at Kava. They chose the restaurant for its authentic Goan Thali Experience and innovative cuisine. The customized tasting menu featured a progression of flavors and culinary techniques, leaving the couple thoroughly impressed. The dessert, Bebinca, made with a unique combination of local fruits and ground spice, became the highlight of their celebration, making their anniversary truly

Catering to Diverse Tastes and Preferences

As a chef, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences is a top priority for Chef Seema and her team. The menu includes options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific dietary requirements. Listening to guests' preferences and requests is crucial, and the menu is regularly updated to reflect seasonal changes and incorporate new culinary trends. By offering a wide variety of dishes with different flavour profiles, Kava aims to create a dining experience that appeals

Embracing Sustainability for a Better Tomorrow

Fairfield by Marriott is known for its commitment to sustainability, and the restaurant aligns with this ethos in several ways By prioritising locally-sourced and organic ingredients, using sustainable packaging, and promoting responsible seafood sourcing, Kava actively contributes to reducing its carbon footprint. Moreover, educating associates and guests about sustainable practices inspires them to make environmentally-conscious choices, further supporting the restaurant's sustainability goals.

Crafting Seasonal Menus with Team Collaboration

Creating seasonal menus that showcase the best of each season's ingredients is a collaborative effort within Kava's culinary team. The chefs research peak-season produce and ingredients available locally and then brainstorm together to develop innovative recipes that highlight these seasonal gems. Tastings and feedback sessions refine the dishes, resulting in a carefully curated seasonal menu that celebrates the flavours and bounty of each season.

Striking a Balance Between Tradition and Innovation

Innovation plays a pivotal role in shaping Kava's culinary offerings. While the restaurant respects and honours culinary traditions, it also embraces contemporary trends to keep the menu fresh and exciting Chef Seema and her team experiment with new ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation styles to push the boundaries of flavour and aesthetics. Balancing traditional dishes with contemporary twists ensures that the menu appeals to both traditional food enthusiasts and those seeking unique and novel experiences.

Team Camaraderie in the Heart of the Kitchen

Behind the scenes in the kitchen, Kava's team operates like a well-oiled machine, driven by camaraderie and mutual respect. Open communication and collaboration bring out the best in each team member, and their input is valued during menu development sessions. Celebrating successes together and supporting each other during challenging times creates a positive work environment that contributes to the restaurant's success and exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Advice for Aspiring Chefs in the Hospitality Industry

To aspiring chefs looking to work in the hospitality industry, especially at a restaurant like Kava, Chef Seema offers valuable advice. She emphasises pursuing formal culinary training to build a strong foundation and gaining diverse experiences in various kitchens. Curiosity and an open-minded approach to learning about different cuisines and ingredients are essential, as is developing creativity and innovation. She stresses the significance of presentation and encourages aspiring chefs to be passionate about food and dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences to guests.

In conclusion, Chef Seema Silva's culinary journey reflects her love for Goa and its authentic flavours At Fairfield by Marriott's Kava, her commitment to infusing local ingredients, sustainable practices, and innovation creates a truly unique and delightful dining experience. With a talented and passionate team by her side, Chef Seema continues to make her state proud through the culinary delights offered at Fairfield by Marriott Goa Benaulim.

By Sunil Malhotra Stock Images