Michelin-Starred Restaurateur Honored for Transforming Indian Fine Dining in America
Las Vegas, NV —In a glittering ceremony at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, Avtar Singh Walia, renowned for his transformative impact on Indian cuisine in America, was honored as a Top Restaurant Owner of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP).
In addition, Tamarind Tribeca, owned by Avtar Singh Walia, was chosenas Top Restaurant of the Year for 2025 by IAOTP.
The annual gala in December 2025, which brought together global industry leaders, celebrated Mr. Walia’s decades-long dedication, vision, and leadership in the culinary world. “It was truly humbling for me and my beloved Restaurant, Tamarind to be chosen as the top in the world from among the hundreds that were considered for this great honor,” said Mr. Walia. “I want to thank the International Association of Top Professionals for bestowing this honor on me and Tamarind. The honor is a testament to Indian cuisine gpoing mainstream across the globe.”
The IAOTP recognition is reserved for a select few in each discipline, chosen for their outstanding achievements, leadership abilities, and community contributions. This year, Walia’s name rose to the top, a testament to his perseverance, innovative approach, and the enduring legacy he has built over nearly forty years.
The President of the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), Stephanie Cirami, stated: “Choosing Mr. Walia for this honor was an easy decision for our panel to make. He is inspirational, influential, and a true visionary and thought leader. We cannot wait to meet him and celebrate his accomplishments at this year’s gala.”
Decades of Dedication and Innovation
Looking back, Mr. Walia attributes his success to his perseverance, work ethic, and the mentors he has had along the way.
Mr. Walia’s journey began in the late 1970s after immigrating from Punjab, India. Starting as a warehouse manager for Gucci and later working at New York’s Tandoor restaurant, he quickly discovered his true passion lay in the world of food. His first major role in hospitality came at Akbar restaurant on Park Avenue, where, as manager, he cultivated his dream of opening a fine dining establishment that would showcase the flavors and elegance of Indian cuisine.
That dream came to fruition in 1986 when he co-founded Dawat, partnering with celebrity chef Madhur Jaffrey. Dawat quickly gained a reputation for introducing New Yorkers to a refined, authentic take on Indian food. “We wanted to show people that Indian cuisine could be sophisticated, nuanced, and worthy of the city’s culinary spotlight,” Walia recalls. “It was about changing perceptions and celebrating the richness of our culture.”
Building a Culinary Empire
Walia’s commitment to excellence and authenticity led him to open Tamarind on East 22nd Street in the Flatiron District in 2001, this time as the sole proprietor. Working alongside acclaimed chefs like Raj Jallepalli and Durga Prasad, he elevated the restaurant to Michelin-star status, a first for Indian cuisine in New York City. “A Michelin star isn’t just a personal achievement — it’s a recognition of my team’s relentless pursuit of perfection,” Walia says. “It affirms that Indian food has a rightful place among the world’s greatest cuisines.”
In 2010, Walia launched Tamarind Tribeca at 99 Hudson Street, a sprawling 11,000-square-foot institution that has become synonymous with luxury, hospitality, and world-class Indian dining. The restaurant seats 175 across two levels, featuring a main dining room, a windowed cocktail lounge, and a mezzanine for private events. Under his guidance, Tamarind Tribeca earned Michelin stars in 2013 and 2014, cementing its status as one of New York’s premier culinary destinations.
Tamarind Tribeca, formally known as the Tamarind, a Michelin–starred fine dining restaurant, was located in the Flatiron Section of Manhattan. The new Tamarind in Tribeca is synonymous with exceptionally well crafted Indian fine dining. Carefully set up by Avtar Walia, the restaurant aims to amalgamate the mysteries and joys of the flavors from the India sub-continent with the elan and panache of Tribeca, New York.
“Dining at Tamarind Tribeca isn’t just a meal — it’s a journey through the best of Indian cuisine,” says food critic and longtime patron, Susan Feldman. “Mr. Walia has redefined the experience, blending authenticity with innovation in every dish.”
A Philosophy of Hospitality
Central to Walia’s approach is the Indian ethos of “Atithi Devo Bhava” — the guest is god. This philosophy is evident in every aspect of Tamarind Tribeca, from the meticulously curated menu to the warm, attentive service. Walia is a constant presence in the restaurant, greeting guests, overseeing the kitchen, and ensuring that every dish meets his high standards, especially during festive occasions like Diwali.
“Success comes from honesty, sincerity, and putting forth one’s best efforts,” Walia says, reflecting on his work ethic. “I believe in leading by example, and that means being present, listening to guests, and never settling for less than excellence.”
His hands-on leadership and tireless commitment have cultivated a loyal clientele. Tamarind Tribeca has become a destination for diners seeking not just exquisite food, but also an experience marked by gracious hospitality and attention to detail. The restaurant’s acclaimed wine selection and inventive cocktails, crafted by a team of expert mixologists, further enhance the dining experience.
Recognition and Impact
Walia’s influence extends beyond his own establishments. He is recognized as a mentor to aspiring chefs, a supporter of local communities, and a consistent advocate for raising the profile of Indian cuisine in America. Over the years, he has received numerous awards, including Top Business Owners by Marquis Who’s Who and a Lifetime Achievement Award. His story has been featured in publications such as The New York Times Magazine and Forbes, and on “Good Morning America.”
\In February 2025, Walia was also featured in the New York Edition of The Wall Street Journal, reflecting the growing national recognition of his contributions. Forbes has called him the “godfather of high-end Indian cuisine in America.” His peers refer to him as “a pioneer of Indian gastronomy in America,” and his restaurants have been described as “a masterclass in Indian fine dining.”
Giving Back and Looking Forward
Walia’s journey from his hometown of Abheypur, India, to the heights of New York’s restaurant scene is a story of hard work and the pursuit of the American dream. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Punjab University in 1974, he initially considered a career in the army, but ultimately followed his passion for hospitality, bringing the flavors of his heritage to a new audience.
Beyond his culinary achievements, Walia is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting civic organizations and mentoring the next generation of chefs. “I want to encourage more people to enter this industry and to show them that with dedication and integrity, success is possible,” he says. Among his future aspirations is to write a memoir, capturing the lessons and stories from his remarkable career.
About IAOTP
The International Association of Top Professionals is an exclusive boutique networking organization that handpicks top leaders from across industries. Membership is by invitation only, with nominees selected based on professional accomplishments and contributions to their fields. IAOTP provides a platform for collaboration, keynote speaking, and the exchange of ideas among the world’s most distinguished professionals.
“IAOTP prides itself on creating a community where the best of the best can connect and inspire one another,” says Cirami. “Mr. Walia exemplifies the spirit of excellence and leadership we seek to recognize.”
A Lasting Legacy
As Walia looks back on his journey, he credits his mentors, family, and relentless work ethic for his continued success. “Perseverance is everything,” he asserts. “I’m grateful for every challenge and every opportunity. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to pursue their passions wholeheartedly.”
With Tamarind Tribeca firmly established as a beacon of Indian fine dining, and with continued accolades from industry peers and patrons alike, Avtar Singh Walia’s legacy is secure — not just as a restaurateur, but as a visionary who has forever changed the culinary landscape of America.
For more information about the IAOTP Awards Gala, visit www.iaotp.com/award-gala. To learn more about Tamarind Tribeca, visit the restaurant’s official website: Tamarind Tribeca – The Finest Indian Restaurant in NYC.
Yakub Mathew, a global financial leader and transformational thinker, will unveil his debut book Seeking the Infinite: Maha Kumbh 2025 during the prestigious IAAC Literary Festival at The International House in New York City on Sunday, November 16, 2025, The landmark literary event will feature a distinguished panel of spiritual and cultural thought leaders, including Sadhguru, Diana Eck, Rabbi Scott Matous, The Very Reverend Winnie Varghese, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf and Guruji Sri Anish. The event will be moderated by the redoubtable Suhel Seth.
With over three and a half decades of experience across Citibank, HSBC, and Wells Fargo Advisors, Yakub is known for his purpose-driven leadership and cross-cultural vision. He is a graduate in Economics from Madras University, an undergraduate in Economics Honors from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, and an MBA from the Asian Institute of Management, Manila.
Vinay Mahajan’s professional journey commenced with foundational roles at ICL and DCM Infotech Limited, followed by 38 years as an entrepreneur. After earning an engineering degree from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, and an MBA from the Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi, Mahajan ventured into diverse arenas—IT hardware, manufacturing, software, telecom services, and most recently, data and artificial intelligence.
fosters U.S.-India business cooperation and supports entrepreneurship within diaspora communities.
During the convention, attended by over 1,000 delegates from across the nation, Dr. Amit Chakrabarty assumed charge as the President of AAPI. During a solemn ceremony, Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the outgoing President of AAPI, passed on the gavel to Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, marking a new chapter of service, collaboration, and vision. Dr. Meher Medavaram, President-Elect; Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President; Dr. Seema Arora, Secretary; and Dr. Soumya Neravetla, Treasurer, assumed charge as part of the new Executive Committee. Dr. Hetal Gor assumed charge as the Chair, BOT. Dr. Gautam Kamthan will serve as the President, YPS, and Dr. Priyanka Kolli is the President, MSRF, both, representing the Medical Students and Fellows at the national AAPI.
system serving Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. Starting as a nurse’s aide, she advanced through multiple leadership roles, overseeing nearly 7,800 employees and 1,200 providers. Under her leadership, the network earned numerous national recognitions. Hayes also serves on several boards and is dedicated to mentoring future healthcare leaders. A Cincinnati native, she enjoys the arts, sports, and travel, and is a devoted mother and aunt.
Dr. Satheesh Kathula, the outgoing President of AAPI lauded the support and guidance he received from Dr. Kaza and other members of the BOT, including the incoming BOT Chair, Dr. Gor. Expressing his gratitude to AAPI’s executive committee members, including AAPI’s Convention committee chairs and members, volunteers and sponsors for their continued dedication and visionary leadership in their efforts to make this convention truly a historic one for all, Dr. Kathula, said. “The organizing committees have been working hard to make the AAPI Convention of 2025 rewarding and memorable for all.”
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty: A Visionary Leader with Over Two Decades of Dedicated Service to AAPI, Poised to Propel the Organization to New Heights
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty envisions a future where AAPI stands as a globally respected, politically empowered, and socially impactful force in healthcare. His international vision includes:
Her work ethic carried into her college years at Northwestern University, where she juggled studies with a daily paper route. As an adult, she balanced the demands of single motherhood, running a small business, and caring for her ailing parents. These life experiences have given her firsthand insight into the everyday struggles facing working families. “My life was Made in America. This campaign was Made in America. It could not have happened anywhere else,” she declared. “Now, I’m committed to making sure that the same American Dream is alive and well now, and for generations to come.”
Rotary’s youth members are joining forces with the globally renowned visionary Dr. V.K. Raju, founder of the Eye Foundation of America (EFA), in a profound mission to eradicate childhood blindness. On June 14, 2025, an inspiring gathering took place at the India International Centre in New Delhi, where a dynamic group of Rotaractors and Interactors expressed their unwavering commitment to carrying forward Dr. Raju’s vision of a “world without childhood blindness.” This event marked a significant step in creating intergenerational partnerships for global health equity.
Vallabhaneni, while expressing his appreciation and gratitude to the Sen. Husted, who serves on the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, the Committee on Environment and Public Works, and the Special Committee on Aging, said, “We truly appreciate the time he spent with us and the valuable insights he shared. His perspectives on current affairs and the evolving role of IT and AI in the industry were both timely and thought-provoking.”
Capitol Hill Day is a vital part of ITServe Alliance, which was born out of the necessity to be the voice of IT companies in the United States, advocating for our rights, with the objective of educating lawmakers working toward meaningful changes that will benefit the IT industry and the larger society across the nation.
About ITServe Alliance:
“ITServe and its member community is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and actively contributing to local communities nationwide,” said Anju Vallabhaneni. “We recognize the sacrifices of our veterans and first responders, who selflessly serve our nation. Supporting them and their families is of utmost importance to us, as we express our gratitude for their unwavering dedication and bravery.”
As a Diplomat of the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, championing holistic approaches to managing and reducing Chronic Disease, especially in underserved communities, “Dr Kathula’s contributions extend far beyond the walls of his clinic. As a visionary leader in AAPI, he has amplified the voices of Physicians of Indian religion, advocated for meaningful healthcare reforms, and promoted international collaboration in medicine and research under his leadership,” Rep. Jackson added.
His facility, the David S. Zocchi Brain Tumor Center, is renowned for its innovative approaches in treating brain tumors and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Raval’s dedication to providing compassionate care has earned him accolades, including the GBM Heroes Award presented at the 21st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Neuro-Oncology organized by CURE® magazine.
A key objective of ITServe has been to raise awareness among lawmakers and the broader community about the positive impact of high-skilled legal immigration programs on businesses. Through constructive engagement and collaboration with Members of Congress and Senators, ITServe aims to address misconceptions and advocate for thoughtful legislation that supports economic growth and serves the best interests of the nation.
Dr. Satheesh Kathula is a renowned hematologist and oncologist based in Dayton, Ohio, currently serving as the President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI). Dr. Kathula, in his response after receiving the award, said, “I am truly humbled to receive this Lifetime Achievement in Global Healthcare Leadership alongside several other remarkable individuals. This inspires not only me, but the people who are serving the community and society at large.”
Under his leadership, AAPI has launched a program called “Million Miles of Gratitude” to honor veterans by promoting physical activity. Participants can log their walking or running miles, with each mile serving as a tribute to the veterans. The goal is to collectively reach a million miles in the coming year. In May this year, he led a highly successful AAPI Legislative Day on Capitol Hill, where AAPI sought to collectively shape the best health care for the people of US, with the physician at the helm, caring for the medically underserved.
Dr Kathula’s love for his motherland has manifested in him setting up humanitarian and medical projects in India. The most important of them is establishing a state-of-the-art pharmacy college in Warangal in Telangana, where he grew up. Named the Pathfinder Institute of Pharmacy and Educational Research (PIPER), the non-profit with Dr Kathula as the Chairman provides quality education and has already graduated over 1,000 students who are now working in different parts of India and abroad. He conducted several medical camps close to his native place and donated a defibrillator, water purification plant, and library to his native place.
Participants at the Conference were part of insightful panel discussions, keynote speeches, and interactive sessions led by media experts, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving world of journalism. With digital transformation and press freedom remaining critical global issues, the conference facilitated discussions on key challenges and potential solutions shaping the future of journalism.
Dr. Vemuri S. Murthy is the co-investigator of a ground-breaking Cardiac Arrest Registry in India, “Warangal Area Cardiac Arrest Registry”. Dr. Murthy, a past President of the Chicago Medical Society and Indian American Medical Association (Illinois), has received several prestigious national and international awards and a Medal of US Congress as “Global Champion of Resuscitation” for his professional and community service contributions in the USA and India.
The IAPC Souvenir Video edition was released after a video introduction by Dr. Mathew Joys, Chair of the Souvenir Committee and a short visual highlight of the souvenir on the screen, giving a glimpse of the beautifully curated content and memories it holds. In addition, the book “The Citizen Journalist,” written by Dr. Matthew Joys and providing guidelines for new media workers, was released by former Chairman Dr. Babu Stephen in the presence of eminent journalist Romi Mathew. The book is a compelling exploration of truth-telling in the modern world, blending insights from his rich experience in media, ethics, and civic engagement. Dr. Joys was then honored in absentia as one of the most prolific voices in the Indian American media community.
Inspired by the AAPI New Jersey Chapter, the AAPI “Share a Blanket” Project was launched in 2019 with the objective of sharing warmth during the winter months with those in need. Since its inception, this initiative has become a cherished tradition, and we are proud to see that other local chapters have embraced similar efforts in their communities,” added Dr. Kathula.
year,” said Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, Chair, Share-The-Warmth program. “The winter season is a time for us to care and share again! Over the last few years, AAPI, along with several local chapters and some of our members, made tremendous efforts and helped numerous needy people by donating blankets, and we are proud to say that this was very well received by the targeted communities.”
Dr. Raj Bhayani, Secretary of AAPI, urged “all AAPI members to carry on this program in the coming years as well and make AAPI and our local organizations proud. We request that every one of you make a generous donation for this fund, and your contribution would surely give a great comfort to a needy person.”
The contestants will be judged in four categories, based on one’s Poise, Personality, Presentation, Performance, Style, Appearance, Intelligence and Confidence.
In the past five years, since he launched the movement to save the Earth from the effects of Batteries, Sri Nihal Tammana has been instrumental in recycling as many as 625,000+ batteries, preventing hazardous waste from polluting landfills. He has helped educate 40 million people through school programs, corporate workshops, and media outreach.
Nihal’s mission has come to be recognized, winning him and his non-profit organization, Recycle My Battery, dozens of accolades and awards. Sri Nihal has been featured on CNN, BBC, TEDx, and several other major media platforms, helping to spread awareness globally.
Nihal plans to major in environmental science in college and eventually invent his own eco-friendly battery. “I want to study Physics and Chemistry and learn about the environmental impacts on the Earth like climate change and everything. So I can use all this to make my own eco-friendly battery, which will use 0% of harmful chemicals and it will be able to be thrown away into the trash. So, it will be good for performance and for all of us to enjoy all the environment and the Earth will also enjoy it as well as it will be very sustainable. I will learn more engineering and environmental science so I can use all the things which I’ve learned to benefit all.”
His story is one of purpose. impact, and a relentless commitment to building a brighter future for all. He was born in a rural Indian village with severe visual impairment. Today, Sam Maddula is on a mission to create a transformative impact on healthcare and society
A passionate advocate for giving back, Sam has made significant contributions to organizations like the Eye Foundation of America and he continues to mentor aspiring pharmacists, fostering the next generation of leaders. He serves on the boards of numerous non-profits and civic organizations, leveraging his resources to advocate for a more equitable world
Sam believes that “It is our duty to do more as we give as we get more. I am a living example of what we can be, of what can be achieved when we collectively decide to make a difference in the world. I am not a statistic. I am a human being that is here because people like you 40 years ago decided to make a difference. The next person we say from blindness might be an astronomer, a farmer, a doctor, or just an ordinary person telling you his life story, because someone decided to make a difference. You do not need to move mountains to do good. You just need to care a little bit. You don’t need to do a lot, do a little and maybe a little bit more. And before you know it, you saved a child from blindness.”
Indo-American Press Club (IAPC) is a fast-growing syndicate of print, visual, online, and electronic media journalists and other media-related professionals of Indian origin working in the United States, Canada, and Europe. IAPC is committed to enhancing the working conditions of our journalists, exchanging ideas, and offering educational and training opportunities to our members, aspiring young journalists, and media professionals around the globe; and also by honoring media people for their excellence, and for bringing positive changes through their dedicated service among the community. Today IAPC envisages its vision through collective efforts and advocacy activities through its 15 Chapters across the US and Canada, in the larger public sphere. Visit 
Sam shared his life story with the audience during a Fund Raiser organized by 
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Lord Rami Ranger, a well-known philanthropist, and successful businessman from the United Kingdom, while echoing the mission of EFA said, “Childhood blindness is a solvable problem, but it requires our collective action.” According to 
Deliver life-saving Retinopathy of Prematurity screenings and treatments to premature infants.