Celebrated chef, restaurateur, and television personality Vikram Vij is renowned for redefining Indian cuisine in Canada and beyond. Trained in Austria and seasoned at world-class establishments, he opened Vij’s in 1994 in Vancouver, blending bold innovation with deep-rooted tradition.
Known for his signature hospitality — often greeting guests with a cup of chai — Chef Vij has earned global acclaim, multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand honours, and a Lifetime Achievement Award. For DARPAN, he handpicked these recipes from his new 2025 cookbook, My New Indian Kitchen, showcasing his ever-evolving culinary artistry.
Rice & Herb Vegetables stuffed tomatoes dish by Chef Lucky Dhillon is vegan and gluten free. It is real delight with warm rice, juicy tomotoes and the combination of herbs briging out the aroma and flavour of this dish.
Chai couldn't getter better when one of the most popular desserts is in it. Loaded with the goodness of milk and chocolate along with whipped cream and exotic spices, the masala chai infused with tiramisu is a real treat for your tastebuds.
Saffron Risotto Balls are made of rice and cheese and are bursting with the flavour of fresh herbs and saffron. It is one of many unique creations of Chef Lucky Dhillon. A must try for family and friends.
Chef Dhillon describes his food as "unpretentiously soulful" and enjoys working with fresh, classic and rustic Fraser Valley ingredients. Proud of his Indian cooking heritage, he understands that Indian spices can do the trick and add to the flavour of so many dishes apart from the good old curry!
In 2014, he moved to Canada, where he worked with the Fairmont Hotel and completed his Red Seal Chef certification requirements. He opened his first catering company, GJs’ Kitchen, in Surrey, BC and quickly learned that the Canadian food scene is quite different from that in other countries.
