Chef Sam brings an extensive culinary career and a deep connection to The Sawyer to his role overseeing culinary operations for Revival, banquets & catering, and in-room dining. Having first joined The Sawyer as Banquet Chef during the hotel’s opening, his return marks a full-circle moment - bringing with him years of experience from some of California’s most respected kitchens.
Prior to returning to The Sawyer, Chef Sam served as Executive Sous Chef at Silverado Resort in Napa Valley, where he helped orchestrate culinary operations across banquets and multiple dining outlets. During his time there, he contributed to menu development and signature culinary programming.
This included the resort’s wine dinner series with Napa Valley wineries and initiatives centered around its on-site organic produce garden. His career also includes serving as Executive Sous Chef at Sutro’s at the Cliff House in San Francisco, where he developed seasonal, farm-to-fork menus inspired by Northern California’s bounty.
Chef Sam continues to bring that locally inspired approach to Sacramento’s culinary scene. In 2025, he earned Judges’ Choice at the American Burger Battle for his signature burger featuring spicy aioli, bacon jam, arugula, pickled shallots, and a charcoal brioche bun - a creation that has since become one of the most popular items on Revival’s menu. He also participated in the Terra Madre Grand Tasting and joined the culinary lineup for Sacramento’s iconic Tower Bridge Dinner, serving a Ratatouille Tartine appetizer.
At Revival, Chef Sam’s cooking is rooted in seasonality, creativity, and a distinctly California point of view.
