Chef Saradhi Dakara’s journey started in a small coastal town in India, where food was more than just sustenance, it was a way of life. Inspired by his mother’s natural talent in the kitchen, young Saradhi spent hours watching her cook. Meals were at the heart of family life, creating lasting memories that would shape his future. While societal expectations nudged him toward a traditional career, he was drawn to the magic of cooking.
A Leap of Faith into Culinary Arts
Choosing passion over predictability, Saradhi enrolled in culinary school and graduated with honors. From that moment, there was no turning back. He set his sights on Dubai, a city brimming with opportunity and rich in culinary diversity. It was here that his skills, creativity, and determination would be tested and rewarded.
Building a Career in Dubai’s Top Kitchens
Saradhi began at the bottom, working as a Commis Chef at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. He then moved through the ranks at JW Marriott and Fairmont the Palm, each role sharpening his skills and expanding his knowledge. Over time, his name became synonymous with excellence and innovation in the kitchen.
His journey was filled with major milestones:
What’s On Newcomer of the Year
BBC Good Food’s Best Seafood Restaurant
Caterer Middle East’s No. 2 in Power 50 Chef Ranking
The prestigious Fuad Barahim Award for Excellence
Working With the Culinary Elite
A major turning point came when Saradhi worked alongside global culinary icons such as Massimo Mantarro and Marco Pierre White. These collaborations influenced his style, merging precision with passion. He became a key player in several high profile restaurant openings, including Fairmont the Palm, Sheraton Grand Dubai, and The Maine.
At The Maine, his talent truly flourished. What started as a pre opening chef role soon evolved into a leadership position that expanded the brand across London, Ibiza, and Bodrum. His influence helped shape The Maine’s international presence while staying true to its core identity. During this time Saradhi was also a driving force behind the launch of Canary Club – one of Dubai’s most instagram-friendly restaurant, bar and rooftop lounges, blending the style and flavour of West Coast destinations, from Palm Springs to Cabo.
Chef, Mentor, and Entrepreneur
In 2020, Saradhi launched his own hospitality consultancy. Fueled by a desire to give back to the industry, his work helps new businesses build sustainable models, avoid common pitfalls, and make smarter investments. He speaks openly about the need to balance creativity with sound business planning.
From this venture came successful brands like:
Terra Eatery – Redefining modern day eating. Terra is inspired by travel, culture, art, and people. A maleable amalgam of humble meets refined, rustic meets contemporary, causal meets elevated.
Bageri Form – A Nordic inspired bakery focused on authenticity
Dining Boutique – A celebration of authentic, seasonal flavors, inspired by local produce. It’s a place where every meal feels personal and crafted with care.
Championing Local Ingredients and Sustainability
Throughout his career, Saradhi has stayed committed to sustainability and local sourcing. Long before it became a global trend, he promoted using regional produce. He was one of the first champions of Dibba Bay Oysters and often recalls visiting the market with his father to select the day’s freshest catch.
His philosophy is simple but powerful: great food starts with great ingredients, and sustainability should be at the heart of every kitchen.
The Birth of Stellar Society Group
In July 2025, Chef Saradhi unveiled his boldest move yet, Stellar Society Group, with the aim to transform ultra luxury casual dining in the UAE.
Stellar Society is not just about food, it is about storytelling, soul, and service. Their vision is to create memorable experiences through a thoughtful mix of design, flavor, and guest engagement.
Orilla: A Personal Culinary Journey
The group’s first flagship concept, Orilla, is set to launch in October 2025. This restaurant is a true reflection of Saradhi’s roots, creativity, and international exposure. Orilla presents a unique fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, a MediterrAsian concept that marries tradition with innovation.
Diners can expect a menu that is both soulful and refined, rich in flavor, and crafted with intention. Every dish tells a story, whether it is inspired by the sun soaked coasts of Spain or the aromatic spices of Southeast Asia.
A Life of Balance, Purpose, and Inspiration
Today, Chef Saradhi Dakara is not just a chef, he is a father, a husband, a mentor, and a leader. He continues to live a life rooted in purpose, balance, and humility. Whether he is creating a new dish, mentoring young chefs, or spending time with his family, he does it with the same passion that first brought him into the kitchen as a young boy.
His story, from a small Indian town to the heart of Dubai’s fine dining scene, is a testament to what passion, hard work, and a deep love for food can achieve.
As Stellar Society prepares for launch and Orilla readies for its grand debut, all eyes are on Chef Saradhi. His journey continues to inspire thousands of aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs who dare to follow their own unconventional paths.
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click here.www.stellarsocietygroup.com
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