Entering La Riv in Georgetown, Texas, one is immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and bold, sophisticated flavors. Spearheading this gastronomic haven is Chef Vira Chudasma, whose two decades of culinary expertise and unyielding passion manifest in every meticulously crafted dish. With the new Georgetown location, Chef Vira elevates the local dining scene, blending regional ingredients with an international flair that promises a memorable culinary journey.
“I felt this was the right time to expand,” Chef Vira reflects on La Riv Temple’s eight-year legacy of fine dining. “Georgetown needed a restaurant like La Riv. Its proximity to Austin also made it a strategic choice.” This expansion not only signifies growth but underscores Chef Vira’s dedication to delivering exceptional dining experiences to a broader audience.
Transitioning from Temple to Georgetown came with its own set of challenges. “Building this restaurant from scratch in a new building was no small feat,” Chef Vira recalls. “Navigating the permitting process and adhering to Georgetown’s historic aesthetic guidelines took about 15 months. It was a learning curve, but a rewarding one.”
Despite the obstacles, Chef Vira remained intimately involved in every aspect of the project. “I oversaw the entire design process personally. I didn’t hire an interior designer or a restaurant architect,” she explains. Transitioning from chef to restaurateur was a significant undertaking, but it allowed me to learn and grow in new ways.”
Chef Vira’s culinary philosophy is rooted in simplicity and quality. “I draw inspiration from around the world, blending traditional techniques with local ingredients. Authenticity, to me, means showcasing these ingredients in their purest form,” she elaborates. “My style is rustic, focusing on the best local produce available.”
This ethos is evident in La Riv’s fresh pasta program. “We make all our pasta in-house in a dedicated pasta lab, which is central to our prep area,” Chef Vira describes. “Guests can watch us make fresh pasta daily, adding an interactive element to their dining experience.”
The ambiance at La Riv is designed to enhance every visit. “Guests are greeted by a beautiful bar at the entrance, leading into a contemporary, open kitchen space,” Chef Vira chronicles. “It’s an immersive experience where diners can see and hear the chefs at work. Our professional staff ensures that every evening is memorable.”
Building strong community ties is a priority for Chef Vira. “Great relationships with suppliers and local businesses are crucial. We rely heavily on fresh, quality produce, and these connections are essential,” she notes. While integrating into the Georgetown community takes time, Chef Vira is optimistic. “I’m taking my time to get to know the community better. It’s a process, but I’m confident it will be rewarding.”
Opening La Riv in Georgetown marked a significant milestone for Chef Vira. “I had my doubts, but when we opened on November 8th, 2023, all worries vanished. Georgetown feels like my chance to excel further, and I’m excited to continue pushing myself and learning every day,” she reflects.
Among the many culinary delights, one dish stands out for Chef Vira. “The Branzino is my favorite,” she emphasizes. “It’s a whole Mediterranean seabass served simply with sautéed spinach, reminiscent of my time in Italy. It embodies the essence of rustic, uncomplicated food.”
Chef Vira also draws inspiration from culinary legends. “Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsey, Eric Ripert, and Thomas Keller have all influenced me,” she says. Their dedication to elevating simple ingredients inspires my work at La Riv.”
As Chef Vira Chudasma continues to leave her mark on Georgetown, her unwavering commitment to quality, community, and culinary excellence ensures that every visit to La Riv is an unforgettable experience.
