Preeti Waas

Chef Preeti Waas never set out to be a chef. Her culinary trajectory began with her love of baking, which brought her to Farmer's Markets, pop-ups, and a home-licensed kitchen before she ever considered owning and operating a brick and mortar. 

Cheeni, the name of Preeti's regional Indian restaurant, translates to "sugar"; a nod to her baking origins, and her cult-famous chocolate chip cookies. Now, with one restaurant open, another on the way, and a boutique market concept to her name, Preeti is expanding beyond her wildest dreams. Still, she's driven by the same goal she's always had: to feed people good food, and create a community for herself and her family.

Preeti’s career in food and hospitality has given her a sense of purpose and belonging. She loves what she does and firmly believes that food is healing, comfort, and a source of connection. As a home cook, she is still blown away by her first James Beard Nomination. Her second nomination feels just as surreal as the first, as does her third! 

Social Handle: @cheenidurham / @preetiwaas