Overview

• Kumar won the Best Chef: New York State title at the 2025 James Beard Awards, marking the first time an Indian restaurant has received that honor
• Semma holds a Michelin star and was ranked No. 1 on The New York Times’ 100 Best Restaurants list for its authentic South Indian offerings
• In his acceptance remarks, Kumar reflected on growing up in Arasampatti near Madurai and highlighted dishes like nathai pirattal and eral thokku
• The victory has generated widespread social media praise and brought renewed global interest to Tamil Nadu’s culinary traditions
• Operated by the Unapologetic Foods group under Chintan Pandya and Roni Mazumdar, Semma has redefined Indian fine dining in New York