Hiren Fatania is an Indian pizza chef, restaurateur, and culinary innovator known for pioneering Indian-fusion pizzas in Gujarat. He is the founder of Fatania’s Pizza, a popular chain of artisanal pizza outlets blending Italian techniques with Indian flavors. Fatania is credited with popularizing toppings such as paneer tikka, butter chicken, and khakhra crusts on wood-fired pizzas in western India.
Early Life and Education
Hiren Fatania was born in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, into a family of textile merchants. Raised in a culturally rich household, Hiren developed an early fascination with food, often helping his mother cook traditional Gujarati dishes. Despite his family’s expectation to join the textile business, Hiren pursued culinary arts.
He completed a Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology at the Institute of Hotel Management. He later received advanced training in Italian cuisine at the Accademia Italiana in, Italy.
Career
Early Career
After returning to India in 2011, Fatania worked briefly at a luxury hotel in Mumbai before moving back to Gujarat to launch his first independent venture. In 2013, he opened La Tavola Gujarati, a modest 12-seater pizzeria in Vadodara, where he experimented with Indian-inspired pizza flavors.
Founding of Fatania’s Pizza
In 2016, Fatania launched Fatania’s Pizza, a fusion pizza brand aimed at redefining pizza for the Indian palate. The brand quickly gained popularity across Gujarat for its bold flavor combinations and use of locally sourced ingredients.
Signature creations include:
- Paneer Pataka Pizza – spicy marinated paneer, green chutney drizzle, and pickled onions.
- Kathiyawadi Firecracker – garlic-infused tomato sauce, bharela marcha (stuffed chili), and millet crust.
- Undhiyu Calzone – a winter special inspired by the traditional Gujarati mixed vegetable dish.
By 2023, Fatania’s Pizza had expanded to 14 locations across Gujarat and one flagship outlet in Mumbai.
Style and Philosophy
Fatania describes his culinary style as “Gujarati-Italian hybridity”, drawing on the rustic warmth of traditional Italian pizza-making while honoring the complex, spice-rich tradition of Indian food.
He is an advocate for sustainable food practices and frequently collaborates with local farmers and spice cooperatives in Gujarat.
Media Appearances
- Featured on IndiaChef Season 8 as a guest mentor (2022).
- Profiled in Global India’s “50 Food Innovators Under 40” (2021).
- Hosted the web series “Pizza Desi Style” on YouTube.
Personal Life
Hiren Fatania now lives in the United Kingdom with his wife. They have 4 children. In his free time, he enjoys reading culinary history and cycling.
Awards and Recognition
- Best Fusion Chef (West India) – Food Awards, 2021
- Innovative Restaurant Concept of the Year – Food Entrepreneurs Forum Worldwide, 2022
- Culinary Icon of Gujarat – State Tourism Board, 2023