MasterChef winner Sashi Cheliah to open new eatery facing Callum Hann’s Eleven bar and restaurant on Waymouth St

A new food hub in Adelaide is getting a MasterChef flavour, as former winner Sashi Cheliah opens his second city restaurant.

MasterChef 2018 winner Sashi Cheliah is opening a second eatery – Gaja Express, in Arbour Lane in the city. Picture: Tom Huntley

A new foodie hub in Adelaide’s business district is getting a distinct MasterChef flavour.

Former prison guard-turned-chef Sashi Cheliah, who won the 2018 season of the popular cooking show, is opening his second eatery in the 11 Waymouth St development.

Gaja Express will take up the corner spot of Arbor Lane, facing Eleven bar and restaurant – which has 2012 MasterChef All Stars winner and 2020 Back to Win contestant, Callum Hann, at the helm, along with his business partner Themis Chryssidis.

SA MASTERCHEF MAP: Discover other eateries by SA MasterChef contestants

“I saw the place as having good potential for the lunch crowd and liked the location,” says Cheliah, who opened his Gaja by Sashi restaurant on Pirie St at the end of 2019.

“After I put in my inquiry and all that, that’s when I realised Callum is just beside me!”

Eleven owners Callum Hann and Themis Chryssidis (front), with head chef Daniel Murphy. Picture: Mark Brake

Gaja Express will be “an extension” of the main restaurant, seating 24 people inside and focusing on takeaway-friendly fare inspired by Cheliah’s Singaporean background.

“It will be quick and easy: a selection of greens, proteins and sauce with veg,” Cheliah says.

“There is an amazing outdoor space there, so people can have a meal and chat with their friends.”

Hann said it was “exciting times for the area” – his Eleven bar has enjoyed a big reception since opening before Christmas, while the Eleven restaurant is expected to open in May.