Doyel Sarangi: The MasterChef Runner-Up Redefining Bengali Cuisine in Bangalore

In India’s vibrant culinary landscape, few chefs embody passion, precision, and cultural pride the way Doyel Sarangi does. Widely admired as the Runner-Up of MasterChef India 2013, Doyel has evolved from a celebrated home chef into a visionary restaurateur who is transforming the way Bangalore experiences Bengali cuisine.

Today, she leads Abol Tabol, a fine-dining Bengali restaurant in Electronic City, and a beloved destination for anyone longing for the soulful flavours of Kolkata.

A Journey That Began With Family, Tradition & a Spice Box

Long before television fame, Doyel’s culinary roots were shaped inside the warm, flavour-filled kitchens of her Bengali home. She grew up watching her family cook with instinctive balance—allowing her to absorb the delicate art of spices, the beauty of slow cooking, and the emotional essence of food.

MasterChef India 2013 became a turning point, where her creativity and deep understanding of regional cuisine earned her national respect. With every round, she showcased what Bengali food truly stands for—heritage, emotion, and finesse. Her Runner-Up title wasn’t just a win; it was the beginning of a larger mission:

To take the authentic flavours of Bengal across India.

Abol Tabol: Where Nostalgia Meets Fine Dining

When Doyel moved to Bangalore, she sensed a gap in the city’s food culture — a lack of authentic, home-style Bengali cuisine. That’s when she created Abol Tabol, inspired by Sukumar Ray’s whimsical world that celebrates imagination and emotion.

At Abol Tabol, food is not just served — it is told like a story.

Signature dishes include:

Slow-cooked Kosha Mangsho, inspired by Sunday family gatherings

Kolkata Biryani crafted with precision and heart

Vegetarian delicacies created from century-old recipes

Innovative dishes like Paneer Gold Medley that reflect Doyel’s creative flair

Every plate carries emotion, heritage, and the unmistakable warmth of a Bengali home.

Doyel Sarangi's Culinary Leadership: A Blend of Tradition & Innovation

Doyel believes that a successful restaurant is built on culture, consistency, and creativity — not just recipes.

1. Chef-Driven Authenticity

Every preparation is guided or crafted by her, ensuring authenticity stays untouched.

2. Training the Next Generation

She mentors young chefs, teaching them not just how to cook—but why every ingredient, spice, and technique matters.

3. Perfect Standardisation

Doyel has built detailed SOPs that maintain consistency even in peak hours.

4. Evolving Menus, Rooted in Tradition

Festive menus, special thalis, seasonal delicacies—she ensures innovation without losing cultural identity.

5. Modern Operations with a Traditional Soul

Abol Tabol offers the warmth of a Bengali household but functions with the efficiency of a contemporary fine-dining restaurant.

A Cultural Force in Bangalore’s Food Scene

In a city known for global cuisines, Doyel has carved a unique niche—making Bengali food not just popular, but celebrated. For families far from home, Abol Tabol is a comforting return to their roots. For non-Bengalis, it’s a delightful introduction to a cuisine rich in depth, history, and flavour.

Doyel’s festive menus, curated events, and inventive dishes have made her a respected and influential name in the city’s culinary ecosystem.

A Visionary Beyond the Kitchen

Doyel is not only a chef — she is a cultural ambassador for Bengali cuisine. Her long-term vision includes:

Taking authentic Bengali cuisine to global platforms

Building a strong, transparent, nurturing kitchen culture

Mentoring young chefs, especially women

Elevating regional Indian food to fine-dining standards worldwide

Her journey is proof that when passion meets purpose, culinary magic happens.

From the MasterChef stage to the heart of Bangalore, Doyel Sarangi stands as one of India’s most inspiring culinary leaders. Abol Tabol is more than a restaurant — it is her heart and heritage, beautifully plated for the world to taste.

In every dish, every flavour, and every story, Doyel continues her mission:

To make the world fall in love with Bengali cuisine.