In the Begining:
Jonathan D’Costa was born September 6, 1976 in Goa, India. With his mother as his inspiration, Jonathan started his culinary career at the early age of eleven years. From very early on, he possessed the urge to add his own touch to his mother’s Indian dishes.
Education:
At the age of 16, Jonathan began his studies at the Indian Hotel Management. He went on to study all types of cuisine at the 5-Star Leela Beach Resort, Goa, under the instruction of Chef Vijayan Naik. His studies included French, Italian, Thai, Chinese, Indian, pastries as well as bakery.
On His Own:
Heading to Bombay (Mumbai) in 1997 to continue his education and exploration of the various kinds of fine cuisines, Jonathan went to work at the Taj Mahal hotel. Then, in 1998, he joined Celebrity Cruise Lines. Here he would work under the prestigious Chef Michele Rue, perfecting pastries and other fine French cuisine. In 1999, Jonathan turned in his sea legs for a position as Head Chef in Orlando, Florida at the Far Pavilion Indian Cuisine restaurant.
Maharaja Fine Indian Cuisine:
In 2001, after partnering with the owner of Maharaja Fine Indian Cuisine, Jonathan left Orlando for Charlottesville, Virginia. By creating and perfecting a new menu, he returned authentic Indian cuisine to Charlottesville. Within 3 years, Jonathan became the sole owner of the Maharaja and continues to fuse his Indian cuisine with that of the Western cultures.
