Meet The Chef

Hello, I’m Nithya, the creative force behind CoolDesiAunty Kitchen! A self-taught home cook since the age of 18, my connection to food runs deep, shaped by managing my mother’s catering business and exploring local cuisines during my travels. Growing up in culturally rich environments across India and Nigeria, I developed a lifelong appreciation for diverse flavors and traditions. In the 1980s and 90s, I traveled extensively with my parents, savoring regional delicacies and experimenting with new dishes—experiences that sparked my passion for culinary exploration.

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After moving to the Southern Finger Lakes, I began sharing my love for cooking through classes, catering, cooking demos, and pop-up food events. For over 13 years, I’ve taught cooking, specializing in kids' culinary classes at 171 Cedar Arts in Corning. As the founder of CoolDesiAunty Kitchen, I celebrate my Indian heritage by offering fresh, homestyle Indian cuisine that emphasizes authentic flavors and traditions. Fully licensed and insured, I take pride in creating memorable experiences through food.

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Cooking for me is both an art and a way to bring people together. Whether teaching young chefs, hosting pop-up dinners, or bonding with my family in the kitchen, I view food as a powerful medium for storytelling and connection. Through my culinary journey, I aim to inspire cross-cultural appreciation and share the joy of flavors that reflect my heritage and personal story.