Author of the award-winning organic cookbook “The Original Organics Cookbook” Mr. Kumar is a graduate of Binoba Bhave University, 1997-2000, a degree in history; Institute of Hotel Management, Pusa, 1996-1999, a degree in hospitality - accountancy, food science & nutrition. With 20 years of rich multi-cultural and global experience in hospitality and food & beverage encompassing business hotels, restaurants, and destination wellness centers, Mr. Kumar’s leadership includes: 

• Opening three leading spa resort and wellness retreats in India: award-winning Mandarin Oriental Ananda in the Himalayas Ananda In The Himalayas (recognized by Condé Nast readers as the #1 spa resort 2020), Hilton Shillim and Vana Retreats (recognized as #4 Condé Nast readers 2020 spa resort). With Zak, he recently opened Kinkara at Rise Costa Rica health retreat.

• Launching three culinary institutes, staring at Ananda, followed by Vana and now Kinkara at Rise Costa Rica. His protégés advance the culinary arts in South Asia and East Africa as a passionate and effective teacher and mentor. Kuntal Kumar has studied, experimented with, and taught global cuisines, emphasizing health and indigenous ingredients while exploring groundbreaking methods and forms. Having established institutes in India and Costa Rica, Kumar shall launch the Food as Knowledge initiative.

• He also worked independently with Devonshire Arms, UK (1 Michelin and 4 Rosette Burlington Restaurant).

• Kumar and Zak have collaborated on three projects: Mandarin Oriental Ananda in the Himalayas, Gibbs Farm African Living Spa (still recognized in the 2020 top ten best African Safari lodges by Travel + Leisure), Kinkara at Rise Costa Rica health retreat.