CHENNAI: Toni & Guy, Slam Fitness and the chain of Jonah’s Bistros…meet Sam Paul — the man behind some of the most successful line of businesses in the city. Plus, he is a well known socialite too! A foodie himself, he recently opened a pure vegetarian restaurant 'Sambhar', known for its five varieties of chutneys. City Express got in touch with him to talk about his city and what it means to him.
What makes you a Chennaiite?
The fact that I was born and raised here would make me one. But above all, the lovely people, awesome places, family, friends and so much more would make me a Chennaite and will be the sole reason why I can never leave the city.
Your favourite spot in the city and why?
I have this house in Kovalam, which is completely isolated on the beach. Best sea food…so peaceful and so away from the rush of the city. It’s definitely my favourite spot!
Where would you take a non-Chennaiite friend on his first visit here?
A nice drive on the ECR to Mahabalipuram
Three words in Madras bashai you would teach him/her?
Vankam, nandri, machi!
A Chennai-based celebrity or any personality you’d like to date or go out with…
I wish I could meet the Chief Minister or the previous CM, Kalaignar Karunanidhi
Chennai or Madras?
To be honest, Chennai now
Idli or masala dosa?
Idli but with kari kolambu
‘Enge ooru Madrasu’ — things you think is synonymous to the city
Beef biryani, idli-sambar and dosa,
Marina, Bessy, and movies
A stereotype about us that you absolutely hate
Hero-worshipping of actors and other celebrities
If you could travel back in time, which part of the city would you want to land up in?
The same place I was born and raised in — Kilpauk
Any part of the city you haven’t visited yet?
Some interior parts of north Madras. But I’m sure to visit all parts of the city some day.