Why should one never trust a skinny chef?

Actually, never trust a skinny chef is an old French saying. The French (who undeniably enjoy their food) believe that to cook well you have to enjoy eating well. And we all know what happens to people who eat well ... they, er, tend to look as if they have eaten well. If you like eating well, there is no way you will ever cook anyone an awful meal. And that's a fact.

Why are Sparky's ' portions so large?

Well, a restaurant that serves large portions sure beats one where you need a microscope to find your food! Seriously though, large portions are an American tradition. (We aren't the world's most obese nation for no reason!) Besides, I (Thom) grew up in an Italian home where more is always considered better. Sit down at my mother's table and you'll quit complaining about the size of my portions!

Sparky's décor is amazing. Where did you collect all this stuff?

Believe it not, we bought 95 per cent of our items off ebay.com It's amazing what you can do nowadays with a mouse and a credit card!

Why would an American start a restaurant in Chennai?

I (Thom) love this city. I can't think of any place else where I'd rather live. I'm often greeted with doubtful looks when I tell people this but it's the honest-to-God truth.

Where do you source your ingredients?

Over 90 per cent of our ingredients are sourced right here in India. We have the finest of suppliers from across the country.

What makes your burger the best in Chennai?

Chennai? I would say it's the best in India! Where else do you get a burger so juicy, so bursting with pickles, so cheesy, so huge? Of course, there's a secret ingredient but if I told you what it is I'd be out of business.