Gurps S Bagga - Owner/chef, Maya Indian Restaurant, Freo
Gurps S Bagga
Maya Indian Restaurant, Freo
Owner/chef
Best part of your job?
Cooking was a hobby and it became my career. It’s great to see the guests having a good time. Also, meeting many people, some who have become good friends over the years.
Biggest mistake you’ve made?
Many, but the biggest mistake was to tolerate and put up with a senior team member with poor work ethics. Employ good people and look after them, that is what I learnt.
Favourite food?
I enjoy fish in many forms – grilled, steamed, fried, raw etc. Sharing meals with family and friends is a big part of my Indian heritage. I enjoy doing almost anything with them.
Favourite Asian restaurant?
Dusit Thai in Northbridge is fantastic and Flower Drum in Melbourne is a dining experience.
If you had to take guests to a restaurant in Perth other than your own where would you go and why?
Gucci in Applecross for great Italian. Dom’s food is full of flavour and is cooked to perfection. For seafood with views I would take them to Zafferano and for a big night out I would take them to Star Anise. David Coomer’s cooking is magical. And all of them look after you really well.
Favourite interstate restaurant?
Verge in Melbourne has the most interesting settings, great food and wine. A few years ago I had a long romantic dinner there with my wife. It was our first trip together to Melbourne. Her entrée was sooo delicious and I ate all of it. She still hasn’t forgiven me for it.
Favourite international restaurant?
This has to come out of my wish list. Chef Alain Ducasse is a living legend and I would love to dine at one of his restaurants [Alain Ducasse owns three restaurants –Plaza Athénée in Paris, Louis XV in Monaco and St. Regis Hot in New York].
Pet hate in the kitchen/your business?
Poor hygiene.
Favourite cookbook?
The Indian Pantry is my all-time favourite.
What kitchen tool would you hate to be without?
My global knife.
What wine or wine style are you enjoying right now?
It changes all the time but currently I am enjoying Tempranillo.
If you weren’t doing your current job what would you be doing?
Probably photography, but I do have another job as an assistant to my fashion designer wife.
