For many chefs, the journey begins with a love for food. But for Chef Danushka Lakmal Perera, a Junior Sous Chef at Avani+ Palm View Dubai, his story began with a deep admiration for the person behind the plate. It was in the rhythmic, high-energy environment of a bustling hotel that his true calling revealed itself.
In 2014, while studying Hospitality Management in Sri Lanka, Danushka started his career as a trainee waiter at Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo. He was on the front lines, learning the crucial art of service and the synchronized ballet of a busy dining room. Yet, his gaze was consistently drawn to the kitchen, where a different kind of magic was happening. It was an exclusive world, filled with the intense heat of stoves and the focused energy of chefs in their crisp white jackets.
“I noticed how the chefs carried themselves with a unique pride,” he recalls. “The crisp white jackets, the confidence, and the admiration they received from every staff member—it left a deep impression on me. It wasn’t just a job; it was a symbol of craftsmanship, creativity, and honor.” In that moment, a new dream was born. Danushka made a silent promise to himself: one day, he would earn the right to wear that same white jacket.
A Dedication to the Craft
His opportunity to enter that world came in 2017 when he joined OZO Hotel in Kandy as a trainee chef. The first time he put on the chef’s uniform, it felt extraordinary. “It wasn’t just fabric,” he says, “but a symbol of responsibility, passion, and the dream I once had as a trainee waiter.” From that day forward, every moment in the kitchen was a step toward mastering his craft.
Danushka’s dedication quickly paid off. He joined the renowned Anantara Kalutara Hotel and thrived at the Asian specialty restaurant, Spice Traders, where his skills earned him the chance to host live cooking demonstrations for guests. His ability to connect with people through his food, even from the other side of a counter, was a powerful confirmation of his passion. His hard work was recognized in 2018 when he was named “Best Team Member of the Year,” a title that opened the door to his next great adventure: an internal transfer to Dubai’s Avani+ Palm View.
His move to Dubai marked a significant leap, and he was thrown into the fast-paced, innovative world of a pre-opening hotel. Starting in the cold section, he collaborated with a diverse, international team, pushing his skills and creativity to new heights. “This environment exposed me to new techniques and flavors, inspiring me to create a variety of innovative dishes,” he says. He’s now known for his passion for canapés, hot and cold starters, and the intricate art of plating—each dish a canvas for his meticulous skill and artistic vision. A decorated professional, he’s earned a Bronze Medal at the Culinary Art Expo 2019 for Modern Asian Cuisine and a Bronze Medal at the International Emirates Salon Culinaire 2025 for Savory Creations.
The Recipe for Success
Danushka knows that the path of a chef is not always easy, but he believes the rewards are worth it. He points to the industry’s high turnover rates as a key challenge, emphasizing that the solution lies in fostering a positive culture with fair pay, training, and growth opportunities. For him, a successful kitchen is built on respect and mutual support.
For all the aspiring chefs out there, Danushka has a clear message:
“Never give up. Stay consistent with your hard work, keep learning modern techniques, and most importantly, be patient—the right opportunity will come at the right time.”
He emphasizes the importance of learning from the very basics and avoiding shortcuts, urging young professionals to always strive to be a true professional.
“Every chef carries a great responsibility,” he adds,
“to prepare food with the highest quality and hygiene. Just like doctors, we also deal with lives, and even one mistake can have serious consequences. That’s why being a chef today is one of the most responsible professions.”
His journey is a powerful reminder that with a strong vision and relentless passion, the person you want to become is closer than you think.
