NEW YORK CITY, NY | October 23, 2026 – Mehul Patel, founder of Mr.Paanwala, engaged in a conversation with Chef Vijay Kumar, the James Beard Award-winning chef behind New York City restaurant Semma, during the New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Invesco QQQ. The interaction focused on introducing Indian paan to wider audiences and exploring how culinary professionals can help preserve and promote this longstanding Indian tradition.
During the conversation, Patel asked Chef Kumar about the place of paan in fine dining and whether they could work together to educate people about it.
Responding to the question, Chef Kumar acknowledged that greater awareness was needed, noting that many people were unfamiliar with paan. The exchange opened a discussion about the opportunity for chefs and paan specialists to help audiences better understand its cultural significance and place in Indian food traditions.
Patel highlighted the importance of paan as one of the longstanding elements of Indian culture and expressed his interest in bringing its heritage back to the plate. He also spoke about the potential for engaging with Chef Kumar, other Michelin-starred chefs, and culinary professionals to introduce paan to new audiences through education and shared culinary experiences.
In a warm moment during the interaction, Chef Kumar revealed his personal appreciation for paan, telling Patel, “I am a huge fan of your paan.” His comment reflected the personal connection that food can create across culinary traditions and generations.
For Patel, the exchange represented an opportunity to advance a mission that has guided Mr.Paanwala since its founding in 2009. The brand aims to preserve the heritage of Indian paan while presenting its artistry in contemporary formats that appeal to audiences around the world. Traditionally associated with hospitality, celebrations, and social occasions, paan remains a distinctive part of Indian culinary culture.
The conversation took place during Flavors of Bollywood, an event at the New York City Wine & Food Festival held on October 16, 2026, at Storied NYC. Hosted by Chef Maneet Chauhan and Chef Vijay Kumar, the event brought together culinary professionals and cultural personalities to celebrate Indian food and culture.
Founded by Patel, Mr.Paanwala has developed an international presence through its tobacco-free paan creations, live paan experiences, catering, and cultural storytelling. According to company records, the brand has served more than three million paans, offers over 100 creations, and has reached audiences in more than 12 countries and over 32 US states.
The interaction with Chef Kumar reinforced Patel commitment to making Indian paan more accessible to people unfamiliar with the tradition. While no formal collaboration was announced, the conversation highlighted a shared opportunity to encourage greater awareness of Indian culinary heritage and explore how traditional food experiences can find a place in contemporary dining.
About Mr.Paanwala
Founded by Mehul Patel in 2009, Mr.Paanwala is an international brand dedicated to modern, tobacco-free paan experiences and the cultural traditions surrounding them. The company offers paan creations through catering, live events, retail, and merchandising. Patel is also the founder of Paan Casa, a cafe concept dedicated to paan.
For media inquiries, interviews, images, or additional information, visit mrpaanwala.com or email info@mrpaanwala.com.
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