In the heart of Bhubaneswar, amidst the evolving culinary landscape, stands Revenir Atelier de Patisserie, a beacon of French elegance and innovation in pastry. Behind its success is the indomitable Chef Sanna Gugnani, a visionary who has seamlessly blended Parisian patisserie traditions with Indian-inspired flavors to craft an unparalleled gastronomic experience in Odisha’s capital city.
Discovering a Calling and Chasing a Dream
Chef Sanna’s journey began with an epiphany in high school when she realized her deep passion for culinary arts. This realization led her to pursue formal training at the Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration, laying the groundwork for a stellar career. But her dreams went beyond the conventional, driving her to the culinary capital of the world—Paris.
At Le Cordon Bleu, the alma mater of countless celebrated chefs, Sanna delved into the intricate art of French pastry. With a diploma in hand and stars in her eyes, she embarked on an international journey that saw her working in globally renowned establishments, including Plaza Athenee and the 3-Michelin-starred Pavillon Ledoyen. These institutions imbued her with a meticulous approach, emphasizing precision, innovation, and the harmony of flavors.
The Birth of Revenir
Returning to India, Chef Sanna envisioned bringing the authentic taste of French patisserie to her hometown, Bhubaneswar—a Tier 2 city not typically associated with global culinary trends. Thus, Revenir Atelier de Patisserie was born, fulfilling her dream of making world-class pastries accessible to an audience that previously had to travel to metropolitan hubs for such indulgences.
Revenir is more than just a bakery; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. The name, “Revenir,” meaning “to return” in French, reflects her homage to her roots while encapsulating her aspiration to introduce her community to the culinary excellence she experienced abroad.
Crafting Magic: French Techniques Meet Indian Inspiration
Chef Sanna’s offerings at Revenir are a testament to her global training and local sensibilities. Each pastry is a labor of love, merging French techniques with flavors that resonate with Indian palates.
Take her Dark Chocolate Raspberry Bonbon, for instance. This exquisite creation marries 70% Saint Domingue chocolate with raspberry and a subtle infusion of Roohafza, a beloved Indian syrup. It’s a dessert that narrates her journey—worldly yet rooted in familiarity.
Another standout is her Tarte Moeder, a heartfelt tribute to her mother. This masterpiece combines almond frangipane, blueberry, mango passionfruit curd, and coconut panna cotta, reflecting her ability to transform familial nostalgia into edible art.
Challenges and Triumphs
Establishing a French patisserie in Bhubaneswar was no easy feat. Chef Sanna faced the dual challenge of sourcing authentic ingredients and educating her clientele about the nuances of French pastries. “We needed to build trust,” she recalls, sharing how she organized pop-ups and personal tasting sessions to introduce her creations to the community. This hands-on approach not only demystified the unfamiliar but also fostered a deep appreciation for Revenir’s offerings.
Her perseverance paid off, as Bhubaneswar embraced her artistry, making Revenir a cherished destination for pastry lovers.
The Vision Ahead
Looking to the future, Chef Sanna dreams of expanding Revenir’s footprint while staying true to her ethos of quality and creativity. She envisions creating desserts that continue to celebrate the symphony of global techniques and local flavors.
For Bhubaneswar, Revenir isn’t just a bakery—it’s a revolution. And for Chef Sanna Gugnani, the journey is just beginning. With every tart, bonbon, and éclair, she weaves a narrative of passion, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Chef Gugnani’s story inspires not just aspiring chefs but anyone daring to dream big and redefine possibilities in uncharted territories. In Bhubaneswar, a slice of Paris awaits—crafted with love, precision, and a vision that knows no boundaries.
