Ritu Dalmia is an Indian chef and entrepreneur known for introducing authentic Italian cuisine to India. Founder of the renowned Diva restaurant in Delhi, Dalmia has revolutionized the local dining scene with her passion for Italian flavors.
Born in Kolkata in 1973, Ritu Dalmia began her career in the food industry at the age of 21, opening her first restaurant, Half Moon, in Delhi in 1993. After opening Vama, an Indian fine dining restaurant in London in 1996, Ritu consolidated its international success. In 2000, he sold his stake in Vama to return to India and open Diva in Delhi, which quickly became one of the most acclaimed Italian restaurants in the country.
In addition to Diva, Ritu has expanded his business with a number of restaurants both in India and internationally. In Milan, she opened Cittamani, a restaurant that blends Indian and Italian flavors, in 2017 and partnered with star chef Viviana Varese for Polpo by Spica, a seafood restaurant. Previously, she partnered with the same chef for the restaurant VIVA, a project that earned a Michelin star and closed in 2024.
In 2024, she opened her first restaurant in the Middle East, Atrangi, in Dubai at Jumeirah Al Qasr. This restaurant offers a contemporary Indian dining experience with regional dishes and modern presentation.
In addition to being a successful chef, Ritu is a familiar face on television through the shows Italian Khana and Travelling Diva, and has authored several cookbooks, including Travelling Diva and DIVA Green.
Dalmia is also a staunch supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and played a leading role in the historic battle to decriminalize homosexuality in India.
