There are head chefs, and then there are the people who make a kitchen feel like a home. Durgakumari Pun, affectionately known as Bimala, is firmly in the second camp.

Head Chef at Brasserie Blanc Winchester, Bimala first joined our kitchen several years ago, left to broaden her experience and returned in 2022 fully committed to driving things forward. Last year, she was promoted to Head Chef, a moment that felt not just well-earned, but inevitable.

A mother and a mentor, Bimala leads her kitchen with the same values she brings to her family: patience, care and a deep pride in watching people grow.

To celebrate Fête des Mères, we sat down with Bimala to talk about balance, belonging and why a great meal has the power to take you straight back to your mother’s table.

Finding the Petit Équilibre

Brasserie Blanc kitchens are famously lively places. How do you find the balance between leading one and being a mum?

“I am in a very lucky position that both my family inside and outside of work are very understanding and patient in regards to each other’s roles in my life. My beautiful children understand I can be very busy at work and my team at work allows me the opportunity to spend time with my family when I can.”

What Motherhood Taught Her About Leading a Kitchen

What is the most important thing being a mother has taught you as a Head Chef?

“Three of the most important skills I have used as a head chef are patience, caring and time management.”

Little Diners, Big Opinions

Do your children have a favourite dish from the Brasserie Blanc menu? And are they showing any signs of following in your footsteps?

“My daughter loves our Mushroom Tartine from the August menu and my boy loves his burgers so has that when he comes. My daughter loves cooking at home and trying new ideas and following me but my son is a little less inclined.”

The Kitchen as Family

Brasserie Blanc is all about that “home away from home” feeling. How does your experience as a mother shape the way you lead your team?

“So I always think of my team as my kids at work. I want to nurture them so they can grow and succeed here at BB and this makes me very proud to see them develop.”

It is a sentiment that runs deep at Brasserie Blanc. The best kitchens are not just places where food is made, they are places where people become better at what they do.

A Dish That Tastes Like Home

French cuisine is so often rooted in the recipes of mothers and grandmothers. Which dish on the current menu brings back your own family memories?

“Our beautiful lamb rump reminds me of home, the delicious taste brings back memories of the curries and rice dishes we would often have with lamb.”

Why a French Brasserie Is Made for Mother’s Day

In your view, why is a French brasserie the ultimate setting for families to celebrate together?

“The amazing food, personal service and the little extra touches we provide always tries to make the difference from a good visit to a restaurant, a great one. Showing we are the first thought for a special day out with mum.”

If the Roles Were Reversed…

If you were sitting on the other side of the pass this Mother’s Day, what would you choose?

“I really enjoy duck so would choose that dish with a glass of pinot noir followed by a glass of whiskey, my go to spirit.”

A Message for Every Mum Dining With Us

Finally, what would you like to say to every mother joining us at Brasserie Blanc?

“Part of the secret of success in life is to eat what you like and let the food fight it out inside.” Mark Twain.

We could not have said it better ourselves!

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Like What You See? Come and Work With Us

Bimala’s story is what a career at Brasserie Blanc can look like. If you are passionate about food and hospitality and are looking for somewhere to truly develop, we would love to hear from you.

Come and Experience Bimala’s Kitchen

Bimala’s passion, care and dedication go into every plate that leaves her kitchen. Come and taste it for yourself. We would love to welcome you to the table at Brasserie Blanc Winchester.