Welcome to Sanja, where you can enjoy an exclusive and elevated fine dining experience with acclaimed chef Sagar Massey. A finalist on BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals in 2022, Sagar has brought his talent and passion to his first restaurant, located right here within the Kirkhouse Inn.
Sanja offers an enticing selection of Indian-inspired fine dining that allows guests to indulge in delicious cuisine, creatively crafted by our award-winning Executive Chef in relaxed surroundings. Known for his exceptional knowledge of spices and their blending, Sagar introduces a modern twist on traditional dishes, delivering a symphony of flavours using the freshest seasonal ingredients.
Savour Sagar’s carefully curated à la carte menu, or if choosing a just one dish proves too taxing, treat yourself to Sagar’s six-course tasting menu - for a culinary journey you won't forget. For the ultimate experience, indulge in our exclusive Sanga dining and accommodation package.
Plan your visit to Sanja today. Opening Times: Thursday to Friday 5pm - 10pm Saturday and Sunday Lunch 12pm - 2.30pm - Dinner 5pm -10pm. Please note Sanja is closed Monday to Wednesday
Profile: Sagar Massey
Head Chef and BBC MasterChef: The Professionals Finalist Sanja by Sagar Massey at the Kirkhouse Inn, Strathblane.
At just 25 years old, Sagar Massey has already established himself as arising star in the culinary world, achieving accolades and a career track record that many chefs spend years striving for. As a finalist in BBC’s MasterChef: TheProfessionals in 2022, Sagar's innovative approach to fine dining has earned him international recognition and critical acclaim. Sagar's journey in the culinary arts began in India, where he was raised near New Delhi before moving to Scotland in 2014. His cooking style is influenced by the vibrant spices and flavours of his homeland, which he blends seamlessly with the finest Scottish ingredients. His father's culinary talents and his mother's comforting, home-cooked meals served as his early inspiration, deeply ingraining the rich tastes and aromas of Indian cuisine into his creations.
Sagar honed his craft by earning an HNC in Professional Cooking from West College Scotland, where he was recognised as 'Student of the Year.' He has since worked in esteemed Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Restaurant Martin Wishart in Edinburgh, and the Isle of Eriska Hotel in Benderloch near Oban. His experience extends to high-profile establishments including Mar Hall in Bishopton, Glasgow's Cail Bruach, and the Marine and Lawn Hotel in Troon.
In addition to his work in fine dining, Sagar has served as a bespoke private chef and has produced pop-up restaurants at notable venues. He has also collaborated with his fellow MasterChef finalists at special showcase events, sharing his culinary expertise and creativity.
Sagar's latest venture, Sanja by Sagar Massey at the Kirkhouse Inn, embodies his vision of blending traditional Indian flavours with contemporary Scottish cuisine. Named in honour of his mother, Sanja offers an unparalleled dining experience in the charming and historic setting of the Kirkhouse Inn.
Sanja by Sagar Massey at the Kirkhouse Inn opens on Friday, 17th May 2024. Address: Glasgow Rd, Strathblane, Glasgow G63 9AA
Awards and Professional Accolades:
- BBC MasterChef: The Professionals (2022): Finalist (Second Place)
- Best Chef: ScotHot Awards (2019)
- UK Young National Chef of the Year: Finalist (2021 and 2020)
- Virtual International Salon Culinaire Major Seafood Challenge 2021: Silver Medal
- UK Young Chef of the Year (2019 Semi-Finalist)
- UK Young Seafood Chef of the Year: First Prize (2018), Third Prize (2016)
- Young Scottish Chef of the Year: First Prize (2019)
- West Scotland College: Student of the Year (2017)
- Scottish Salmon Challenge: Finalist (2017)
