Guest Appearance: Robert Mendoza, chef

I tasted Indian food for the first time in Portland, Oregon

What’s on your must-do list for Mumbai?

It’s the same as when I visit any other city — to get lost in it and take it as it comes. I’m looking forward to exploring the art and architecture of Mumbai and of course, to be cooking at Magazine Street Kitchen. But, specifically, I’m excited to see my friend Alex Sanchez at Americano. Also, the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum looks incredible. Oh, and I really want to check out the Sassoon Dock fish market.

What was your first experience with Indian food like?

I tasted Indian food for the first time in Portland, Oregon. I was in my early 20s and my girlfriend at the time had grown up eating Indian food. She was shocked that I had never had it. My first bite was a revelation. I will never forget the aromas, the taste and the emotion in the food.

Have you watched a Bollywood film? What did you think of it?

Most recently, I’ve watched Don. Bollywood films are very entertaining. They have a bit of everything — action, romance, comedy, and music. A complete package.

Your biggest kitchen secret is?

Time is my secret. Whether it’s in the literal sense, like waiting for a sauce to be ready for a few hours, or in an abstract manner by using miso, gochujang, soy sauce, and other fermented products that take a long time to develop.

Rapid fire with Robert

Hottest ingredient for 2020: Mezcal
French food is: Complicated
Indian food is: Delectable

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