Fine dining chef, Sagar Massey, introduced his signature combination of Indian spices and Scottish produce at an exclusive dining experience recently at Michelin-starred chef, Atul Kochhar’s Riwaz restaurant.
Based in Beaconsfield, Riwaz is one of many award-winning restaurants owned by celebrity chef Atul Kochhar who regularly appears on James Martin’s Saturday Morning show. Following Sagar’s appearance in the final of BBC Masterchef: The Professionals earlier this year, Atul invited Sagar to cook at an exclusive pop up at his restaurant which champions the traditions and history of India.
At the sold-out event, diners were treated to a five course tasting menu showcasing Scottish produce.
Sagar Massey, who lives in Linwood, runs his own restaurant, Sanja at the Kirkhouse Inn in Strathblane said, “It was such an experience. Atul is a legend and to have his encouragement and support is a dream come true for me. He’s a great mentor, chef and businessman. The diners were very complimentary, and the salmon starter was a firm favorite.”
Photo: Sagar Massey and Atul Kochhar
Atul took to social media to say, “Collaborating with the talented Chef Sagar Massey was truly inspiring, as we brought together creativity, passion and culinary artistry on every plate.”
At just 25 years old Sagar already has a list of industry accolades. A finalist in the BBC’s Masterchef – The Professionals in 2022, Sagar has worked in two Michelin Star restaurants, Restaurant Martin Wishart in Edinburgh and the Isle of Eriska Hotel in Benderloch near Oban, as well as the five-star Mar Hall in Bishopton, Glasgow’s Cail Bruach and the Marine and Lawn Hotel in Troon.
Raised near New Delhi in India, until leaving for Scotland in 2014, Sagar is renowned for using the spices of his homeland to enliven and embolden Scottish fine dining. Inspired by his father, Raju – who is also a chef working in Oban – as well as by his mother’s fresh and comforting home cooking, Sagar’s roots remain firmly in the impactful, complex flavours and aromas of Indian cuisines.
As well as cooking at Sanja and private events, Sagar lectures on the Professional Cooking course at West College Scotland, where he attended as a student.
Sanja is located within the Kirkhouse Inn which dates back to 1601 and features 15 bedrooms as well as the 1601 bar and restaurant, and a landscaped beer garden.
Located at the foot of the Campsie Hills, on Strathblane Road, the Inn is on the path of the John Muir Way and is just 12 miles from Glasgow. Further information is available from https://www.kirkhouseinn.com/sanja-by-sagar.html.
Headline photo: Sagar Massey and Atul Kochhar with the team at Riwaz