Chef Hitesh Rana’s culinary journey began in Valsad, near Surat, India, where everyday cooking traditions and regional flavours shaped his early connection to food. Growing up immersed in home-style Indian cuisine, he developed a strong appreciation for spice balance, technique, and the cultural roots behind each dish.

After completing his formal education at Rizvi College of Culinary Arts, Mumbai, in 1996, Chef Rana began his professional career in 2000, working with several well-known hospitality brands across India. These formative years helped him build a solid foundation in kitchen operations, menu development, and large-scale restaurant execution.

In 2006, he transitioned his skills to Canada, where he focused on adapting traditional Indian cuisine for a modern dining audience. This experience led to the launch of his own brand, Daal Roti, in 2011, which quickly established itself as a recognized Indian dining concept. Following the success of this venture, Chef Hitesh Rana launched Desi Road in 2021, which has since expanded to three locations across Ontario. The dine-in restaurant brand is designed to blend authentic Indian flavours with a refined, contemporary dining experience.

Today, his work reflects a balance of tradition, structure, and thoughtful execution, contributing to the growth of Indian restaurant brands that resonate with diverse communities across Canada.