Aspiration and
acumen simmer
well together

Chennai. It’s the land of the discerning palate and erudite conversation. A bustling metropolis, where diverse cultures confluence … and taste is always a matter of considered choices. To a young, eager masterchef and a marketing maverick, this was more than enough impetus to spot a never before opportunity to tap into the city’s own language of celebration. And so began the amazing journey of a brand that is a go-to name for culinary excellence, epicurean innovation and an unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary gastronomic experiences.

True entrepreneurship is an insatiable appetite

It was literally the fairytale of a business plan drawn on a serviette – a blueprint to go beyond serving food to crafting captivating memories. The name Sam’s has grown from the flagship Uncle Sam’s Kitchen entity and is now intrinsic to a whole range of sub-brands – Sam & Co catering to corporates, Samma Party Pack aimed at Gen Z, Sam Chacha for mass audiences and Sam’s Hospitality Academy for aspiring talent.

gastronomic experiences gastronomic experiences

A perfect pairing is a connoisseur’s delight

The founders (newly-weds at that time), advertising executive Gunit Singla and her Sheraton Chef husband, Samir Singla, embarked on a culinary odyssey that would make them the undisputed leaders in the world of catering in Chennai. Samir, with his domain prowess and 7-star commitment to quality, set about creating a gourmet establishment. While Gunit, with her background in marketing and consumer understanding, ensured that every aspect of the dining experience was thought through to the finest detail.

Hunger comes in many shapes and forms

Sitting in their one-bedroom home, as they dreamt well beyond four walls, the couple honed in on a powerful insight: an occasion was emblematic of so much more. Every event was predicated on a different kind of hunger – for success, fun, togetherness, professional esteem, spontaneity, nourishment or purpose. And food was intrinsic to the mood. This was the beginning of how the name Sam’s captured the imagination and clientele of a city, evolving into a premium luxury catering brand.

When food
is the
music of love

When food is the music of love

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, every occasion has the potential to be a culinary symphony. With maestros customising menus, drawing from a repertoire of cuisines from around the world and meticulously planning feasts (that sometimes span weeks) to suit the occasion perfectly. Experience and expertise create a favourful jugalbandhi of taste and tastefulness.

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Samir’s rapid fire

The day you decided to wear two hats?

When my wife proved to me that I’d get 3 times my salary for being my own boss!
What does food mean to you? Beyond the plate?

Food is a blessing that we have been gifted by mother earth and must be respected.
High points in the last 27 years?

Serving pizzas at parties even before they were available off the shelf. Stop at Sam’s, a banging restaurant and the first of its kind!
Your relationship with nature and the planet?

I commit to reducing environmental impact and carbon footprint as much as I can within my ecosystem.
Your secret sauce for good business?

Patience, training, continuous self-development, being a team player (but take time out for oneself too.) Our business is a one-day cricket match – no two events are alike!

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Gunit’s rapid fire

Parallels between marketing and culinary worlds?

Food is the most promoted industry on marketing channels – the 4Ps are very much at play! Our mantra? People eat with their eyes first!
What you love about Chennai’s appreciation of food?

We were first in the toughest market, even big food brands dared to come here last! The love is mutual. Chennai embraced and recommended us.
Memorable moments in your flavoursome journey?

When the Consul General of USA fondly called me the Martha Stewart of India! When a daughter told us her mother’s dying wish was for us to cater for her last rites – very touching.
Your special personal touches?

Attention to detail, giving food a language and personality, hospitality that goes beyond to treat guests like family.
Ingredients you can’t do without in business?

Innovation, always. Uncompromising quality. Because the opportunity is now and will never come back.