In the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai's culinary scene, there exists a legacy woven with the rich flavours of coastal cuisine. At the heart of this culinary journey is Ankita Fernandes, a passionate chef and the torchbearer of her father's dream – Fresh Catch.
Ankita's odyssey in the world of gastronomy began at an early age,her initiation into the world of cooking commenced at the tender age of 8, as her father, a culinary maestro, guided her through the intricacies of crafting exquisite dishes. The kitchen, a sacred space where culinary traditions were handed down from generation to generation, became Ankita's classroom.
As she embarks on her culinary journey, Ankita acknowledges that the family business brings with it a tapestry of responsibilities, a mantle she shares with her brother Adith. Ankita and Adith reflect on the profound impact their father had on the Fresh Catch community. Even now, with each passing day, customers and employees alike fondly recall the culinary maestro who laid the foundation for Mumbai’s beloved seafood restaurant.
Ankita's decision to pursue hotel management was not merely a familial expectation but a conscious choice to broaden her culinary horizons. She recognised the value of learning from diverse perspectives in the hospitality industry, ensuring that her culinary journey would be a tapestry woven with global influences.
Joining Fresh Catch full-time in 2020, Ankita found herself at the helm of Mumbai's iconic seafood restaurant after the untimely loss of her father. Armed with the culinary wisdom passed down through generations, the brother-sister duo embarked on a mission to carry forward the legacy of Fresh Catch.
The essence of Fresh Catch lies in its commitment to authenticity and quality. Ankita, rooted in her family's hometowns of Honavar, Karwar, Goa, and Mangalore, ensures that every dish resonates with the flavours of the coastal regions. The use of locally sourced ingredients from these areas not only maintains authenticity but also upholds the highest standards of quality. Ankita's culinary philosophy is a delicate dance between tradition and innovation. While staying true to the traditional curries, sukkas, and grilled fish that define the restaurant's identity.
In a world where culinary legacies are both celebrated and challenged, Ankita Fernandes stands as a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and a relentless passion for food. Through her journey, she continues to paint the canvas of Fresh Catch with the vibrant hues of coastal delicacies, ensuring that each dish served is not just a meal but a symphony of flavours that pays homage to her father's culinary vision.