i. Biography
Modern Indian restaurant work in Hong Kong provides the operating frame for Manav Tuli, Chef-Founder at Leela. The record spans Modern Indian cuisine, modernised street food, and royal-empire cooking from the subcontinent. Recognition for that register came when the MICHELIN Guide awarded One MICHELIN star to CHAAT Hong Kong in 2022 and again in 2023. “I just wanted to get away from all that. I didn’t know where or how, but I prayed to God to take me away.” Manav has said.
The Trajectory
Hotel-school training and luxury-hotel discipline form the technical base for this cooking. Manav Tuli trained at Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology and Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development before starting as commis at The Trident in Udaipur, India. The line of work then passed through The Oberoi in Mumbai, India, and InterContinental in Mauritius (2008–2011), before London, United Kingdom, with roles at Chutney Mary and Tamarind of Mayfair. The Hong Kong phase put that hotel and London restaurant background into a more visible Modern Indian format, with Manav Tuli working as Chef de Cuisine at CHAAT at Rosewood Hong Kong. The independent expression is now Leela, where he is chef-founder.
The Current Work
Contemporary Indian cooking at Leela is built around diverse regional traditions, with tradition, creativity and sustainability stated as part of the working brief. Tuli works there as Chef-Founder. The kitchen also gives attention to upscale classic imperial dishes of India, particularly dishes connected to the Mauryan empire. That brief links royal-empire cuisine with southern culture and cuisine, and sits alongside an interest in ancient scriptures and mythology. Specific dishes give the work its detail.
Distinctions
One MICHELIN star for CHAAT at Rosewood Hong Kong under Tuli's guidance is the principal recognition listed for this body of work.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Manav
What is Manav Tuli's day job?
Manav Tuli is Chef at Leela — Indian.
Where did Manav Tuli train or study?
Manav Tuli trained at Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology and Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development.
What recognition has Manav Tuli received?
One MICHELIN star for CHAAT at Rosewood Hong Kong under Tuli's guidance.
