Our Story

Sanjay Mandhaiya

Executive Chef & Founder – Pappe, Karravaan, and The Grace

Chef Sanjay Mandhaiya is an accomplished executive chef and restaurateur whose culinary journey spans more than three decades. Raised in a diplomatic family, his upbringing across multiple countries shaped a deep appreciation for global cuisines, cultural exchange, and the stories food can tell—an influence that continues to define his work.

Known for blending authenticity with accessibility, Chef Mandhaiya creates cuisine that resonates across cultures while honoring tradition. His first Washington, D.C. restaurant, Pappe, opened in 2018 and quickly became a Logan Circle favorite for its bold, soulful flavors. In 2025, he expanded his vision with Karravaan in the Union Market District, drawing inspiration from the Silk Road and the historic movement of people, flavors, and ideas.

The Grace marks Chef Mandhaiya’s third venture—an evolution of his culinary philosophy that brings together refinement, storytelling, and a deeply personal expression of hospitality.