Tech CEO Carl Pei is known for bold product launches and disruptive branding — but his latest ‘hot take’ wasn’t about phones. It was about biryani.
The CEO of tech brand Nothing, Carl Pei, stirred up controversy this week with a comment that has split the internet. After dining at the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Jamavar in London, Pei tweeted:
“Hot take: Indian food in London is better than Indian food in India.”
The post, which came with a photo of his posh plate, has drawn sharp reactions from foodies, chefs, and everyday users on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
🔥 A Spicy Statement… or a Mild Take?
It’s important to note Pei prefaced his tweet with the phrase “hot take,” acknowledging he knew the statement would be controversial. And it was.
Many Indian users were quick to respond with a mix of humor and frustration. Some quipped, “NOTHING you said makes sense,” while others countered that Pei simply hadn’t tried authentic regional food in India.
Interestingly, a few international voices agreed with Pei. Their logic? Indian food in London is adapted to suit Western palates — with balanced flavors, presentation, and less spice — making it more accessible to global diners.
🍛 Jamavar: Indian Cuisine, London Style
Carl Pei revealed that his meal was at Jamavar, a Michelin-star Indian fine dining spot in Mayfair, London. With elegant interiors and a curated menu, Jamavar offers gourmet interpretations of traditional Indian dishes, often with a European twist.
Of course, this sparked more backlash. Critics argue that Michelin-style plating and fine-dining flair don’t make food more “authentic.” In fact, some say it dilutes the essence of Indian cooking, which is diverse, rooted in tradition, and best experienced in local eateries across the subcontinent.
🧾 Closing Thoughts: A Taste of Bias?
Is Carl Pei wrong? Not necessarily. He simply stated a personal preference — but one that highlights a deeper conversation: the gap between globalized versions of Indian food and their regional, homegrown counterparts.
Pei’s tweet may not win him fans in India’s culinary heartland, but it certainly lit up the timeline — and reminded us that what’s on your plate is never just food; it’s identity, memory, and culture.
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