Celebration by Rupa Vira In Ashburn, Virginia: Meet The Chef
We sat down with Executive Chef Rupa Vira of Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia. Enjoy traditional Indian Food with a modern twist that showcases global ingredients and modern techniques. Chef Rupa Vira and her team re-imagine traditional Indian food by taking a modern approach pairing with locally sourced ingredients with bold flavors.
Image: Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
My mornings always start with a comforting cup of Masala Chai—it’s my little ritual to find calm before the day takes off. I then check in with my team to ensure all the fresh ingredients are ready, visit my restaurants to oversee the setup, and plan ahead for catering. Evenings are my time to connect with family.
Image: Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia
I love ending the day with a FaceTime call or a visit with my grandchildren—they’re my greatest joy and the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
At Celebration by Rupa Vira, we’re honored to have received the “Best of Northern Virginia” award and to be featured in the “50 Best Restaurants” in Northern Virginia. One of my proudest moments was being included in Washington Post’s “Best Indian Restaurants” by renowned food critic Tom Sietsema. Additionally, our catering expertise earned us the Top of Town Best Indian Caterer award. These accolades are a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to delivering authentic and memorable culinary experiences.
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
I’ve always looked up to Tarla Dalal. Her journey from starting a cooking class at home to becoming a revolutionary force in Indian cuisine deeply resonates with me. Like her, my culinary journey began humbly, cooking from home with the encouragement of family and friends. Tarla Dalal not only transformed the way we view Indian cooking but also became a beacon of inspiration for women chefs everywhere. To aspiring chefs, I’d say embrace your roots, stay curious, and let passion guide you—it’s the foundation for greatness.
What do you typically cook at home for yourself or your family?
At home, I keep it simple with wholesome vegetarian Indian food. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with oil-free cooking, using water as a substitute, and incorporating healthy grains like bajra, millet, and jowar for a gluten-free lifestyle. This approach not only supports a healthier lifestyle for my husband and me but also inspires the dishes we create for TiAins by Rupa Vira. This weekly online meal prep service oAers nutritious, home-style meals, and I’m excited to introduce some of these oil-free recipes in 2025 for others to enjoy a balanced, healthier diet.
Image: Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I’m really loving the trend toward anti-inflammatory and healthy eating. It’s inspiring to see people embrace nutritious, balanced diets that focus on overall well-being. At Celebration by Rupa Vira, we’re excited to introduce health-conscious recipes later this year. Our goal is to blend traditional, homemade-style Indian cooking with modern, wholesome ingredients, creating dishes that are not only flavorful but also nourishing. It’s a wonderful way to honor tradition while embracing a healthier future.
What’s that strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
We experiment with countless recipes, especially when crafting our seasonal chef Specials or designing unique catering menus. Recently, we reimagined a classic Italian risotto with an Indian twist for a wedding couple. Combining buttery risotto with our signature Butter Chicken sauce and topping it with Tandoori Chicken was a bold move I wasn’t sure would work—but it turned out to be a hit! The fusion of creamy textures and smoky flavors was unforgettable, and we’re now considering featuring this dish in an upcoming Seasonal Special. It’s a perfect marriage of tradition and creativity.
What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?
I’m not much of a drinker myself, but when I do indulge, I love a refreshing Mojito. Its balance of citrus, mint, and just a hint of sweetness makes it the perfect drink to unwind with, especially after a long day.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Yes, I’ve had the honor of cooking for a few celebrities. One memorable guest is Paresh Rawal, the iconic Indian actor and comedian. He’s a fan of our Gujarati Daal and insists on having it whenever he visits the Washington DC metropolitan area. It’s always a joy to serve him and his wife, Swaroop Sampat, who we’ve also had the pleasure of hosting on several occasions. Knowing they appreciate our flavors is truly rewarding and makes these moments extra special.
Image: Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia
What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram at @rupavira for a glimpse into my culinary journey. You can also follow my restaurants: Celebration by Rupa Vira at @celebrationva and Rupa Vira's The Signature at @thesignatureva to stay updated on our latest creations, specials, and events.
Why should readers visit Celebration by Rupa Vira in Ashburn, Virginia?
Celebration by Rupa Vira offers a unique culinary experience that blends the rich traditions of Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Our menu showcases innovative takes on classic dishes, like our signature dessert, Celebration Special. Inspired by Daulat Ki Chaat—a delicate street food dessert traditionally served in winter—we’ve reimagined it with a touch of theatrical flair, using dry ice for a mesmerizing smoky presentation. Another must-try is Sabzi Mandi, a tribute to India’s vibrant vegetable markets. This dish features seasonal vegetables like baby corn and organic purple cauliflower, cooked in a flavorful curry made with Goda Masala and sesame gravy—a blend of tradition and innovation inspired by the western regions of India. At Celebration, every dish tells a story, making each visit a memorable journey through Indian flavors.
