Helly Raichura is the chef and owner of the much-celebrated Indian fine diner in Melbourne, Enter Via Laundry. Hailing from Ahmedabad, India, Helly has left an indelible mark on Melbourne’s gastronomic landscape with her exceptional skills and unwavering passion for Indian cuisine. From her early days, Helly found herself drawn to the kitchen, working alongside her mother to prepare meals and creating delectable mithais with her grandmother. These formative experiences instilled in her the belief that crafting dishes from scratch using the finest seasonal ingredients is the cornerstone of both delicious and nourishing food—a principle she holds dear in her cooking today. The culinary journey that Helly embarked upon was a blend of formal training and self-discovery.

Under the guidance of her mother, she mastered the art of Gujarati cuisine, while her grandmother imparted the secrets of Indian Mitai. Subsequently, she honed her skills in the prestigious kitchens of Gaggan and Shaun Quay. As a self-taught chef, she further expanded her repertoire by avidly researching regional Indian cuisine through travel and literature. In 2022, Helly unveiled her first permanent establishment in Carlton, a culmination of her culinary aspirations. This distinctive venue comprises three distinct spaces, each offering a unique dining experience. A cosy living room welcomes guests to unwind with a pre-dinner drink, setting the tone for the culinary voyage ahead. The heart of the establishment features a communal table, echoing the convivial atmosphere of her earlier home restaurant in Box Hill. A private enclave caters to intimate gatherings, accommodating up to ten guests.

Helly’s journey is one marked by innovation and recognition. Her trajectory from hosting intimate dinners at home to owning a renowned fine-dining restaurant has been remarkable. Her dedication to lifting the profile of Indian cuisine in Australia earned her restaurant a coveted hat within its inaugural year. The MasterChef Australia appearance in 2020 and her role as a co-host on the SBS Food Channel’s India Unplated series have solidified her as an influential figure in the culinary world.