From Journalism to Culinary Stardom: Garima Arora’s Career Journey
Garima Arora, born on November 9, 1988, in Mumbai, India, initially pursued a career in journalism before finding her true calling in the culinary world. After enrolling at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, she earned a Grand Diplôme in cuisine and patisserie in 2010. Her culinary journey took her to renowned kitchens, including working with famous chefs like Gordon Ramsay and René Redzepi at Noma in Copenhagen.
Opening Restaurant Gaa in Bangkok: A Culinary Innovation
In 2017, Garima Arora opened Restaurant Gaa in Bangkok, where she combined her Indian roots with local Thai ingredients, creating a unique dining experience. This fusion of Indian culinary techniques with Thai flavors brought immediate success, with Gaa debuting at No. 16 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2019. In the same year, she was awarded her first Michelin star, a groundbreaking achievement in her career.
Making History: Garima Arora’s Two Michelin Stars
Garima Arora’s relentless dedication and innovative cooking led Restaurant Gaa to earn a second Michelin star in 2023, making her the first Indian woman to achieve this prestigious accolade. Her remarkable achievement has solidified her place in the global culinary elite, and her success has inspired chefs worldwide, particularly in the Indian culinary community.
Garima Arora on Television: Expanding Her Influence
Garima Arora’s culinary expertise extended beyond the kitchen when she joined the popular show MasterChef India as a judge in 2023. Her insightful critiques and passion for food brought a fresh perspective to the show, and her presence as the first female judge added to her influence. Arora’s participation in television helped elevate her status as a culinary role model for aspiring chefs.
Awards and Recognitions in the Culinary World
Garima Arora’s exceptional work has earned her numerous prestigious awards:
- 2018: First Indian woman to earn a Michelin star at Restaurant Gaa
- 2019: Named Asia’s Best Female Chef by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants
- 2023: Restaurant Gaa awarded a second Michelin star
These awards highlight her culinary innovation, dedication, and ability to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Garima Arora’s Net Worth: $5 Million and Rising
As of 2025, Garima Arora’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. Her wealth is derived from her Michelin-starred restaurant Gaa, television appearances, and culinary ventures. The continued success of her restaurant, alongside her rising influence in the global culinary scene, further contributes to her impressive financial portfolio.