A Much Loved Impresario At Home In London's Holland Park
I first met Vivek Singh while photographing a corporate event for some of the country’s leading chefs. There were a lot of big personalities in the room, but Vivek stood out straight away. A great smile, a real warmth about him, and the sort of presence that draws people in rather than pushes them away. He was clearly popular that day — and as I’ve got to know him a little since, I can see exactly why.
Chefs have a bit of a reputation. The stereotype is of someone quite domineering, a strong personality who runs the kitchen with an iron grip. Vivek couldn’t be further from that. He’s warm, gentle, thoughtful. There’s a calmness to him that feels quite rare, especially in an industry that can often be intense.
And then you see the food. Vivek has been one of the key figures in shaping modern Indian cuisine in the UK. His cooking feels rooted in tradition but never stuck in it — refined, expressive, and very personal. There’s a real sense that he sees food as a way of bringing people together, of creating something that goes beyond just what’s on the plate.
That philosophy is perhaps best seen at The Cinnamon Club, the restaurant he helped establish back in 2001. Set inside the old Westminster Library, it’s one of those spaces that immediately feels special — high ceilings, a sense of history, and a quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly what it is. It’s now celebrating its 25th anniversary, which is no small thing in this industry. Restaurants come and go so quickly. To last that long, and still feel relevant, says a lot.
Photographing Vivek felt much like meeting him. Easy, collaborative, no sense of ego. Some people need a bit of encouragement in front of the camera, others know exactly what they’re doing. Vivek sits somewhere in between — completely natural, but also open, curious, willing to explore ideas. Those are always the best shoots.
What I came away with more than anything was a sense of someone who genuinely loves what he does, and understands the bigger picture of it. Food as craft, yes, but also as connection. As something that brings people together, creates moments, and leaves a lasting impression.
The Cinnamon Club at 25 feels like a milestone worth celebrating. I hope I’m around to photograph many more anniversaries to come.
