Arshiya Farheen is the Executive Chef and Owner of Verzênay Chicago, a patisserie celebrated for its refined French pastries, technical precision, and commitment to quality and sustainability. Originally from India, with family ties to farmers and wholesale fruit vendors, Arshiya began her professional journey in business, technology and advertising, before pursuing her passion for pastry in Paris. She trained at the prestigious Ferrandi Paris and sharpened her skills at hotel Le Meurice and patisserie Arnaud Delmontel, specializing in laminated doughs and other french pastries.

In 2014, alongside her husband and business partner Aqeel Wahiduddin, she founded Verzênay at Chicago’s Green City Farmers Market, offering seasonally inspired, handcrafted pastries. What started as a market stall quickly evolved into a thriving wholesale business supplying hotels, cafés, and grocery partners like The Drake Hotel and Whole Foods. In 2021, she opened Verzênay’s first retail location in Lincoln Park.

Arshiya’s culinary style blends traditional French techniques with global flavor influences, always grounded in integrity and care. Her work has been featured in Pastry Arts Magazine, Cherry Bombe, Eater Chicago, and more.

Beyond the kitchen, Arshiya is committed to food accessibility, community engagement, and advancing opportunities for women in the culinary industry. Every pastry at Verzênay reflects her belief that food should be meaningful—made with intention, shared with love, and rooted in connection.