by JR Valrey, The People’s Minister of Information
When out of towners come to the Bay and ask, “Who makes the best food out here?” Samara Southern Creations, with their smacking Southern cuisine, is at the top of my list. After relocating recently to Calabash in downtown Oakland – and being open only for brunch – this is easily the most poppin’ place to be on any given Sunday afternoon.
Chef Sarah Earring is definitely a hidden jewel when it comes to soul food in the Bay Area. If I were you, I wouldn’t want to be the last person to find out what all the fuss is about.
In addition, yours truly will be on the wheelz of steel spinning live while you enjoy your dining experience. Check out Chef Sarah Earring in her own words.
JR Valrey: What made you start Samara Southern Creations? Who were some of the cooks that you were inspired by in your life?
Sarah Earring: I officially launched Samara Southern Creations back in 2017 after years of providing dishes to friends and family. Those same people are my inspiration, and I am thankful they encouraged me to start SSC.
JR Valrey: What kind of food do you specialize in?
Sarah Earring: Southern, Cajun and Creole Cuisine.
JR Valrey: Your recent move?
Sarah Earring: For a year prior to opening inside of Calabash, I operated inside of Haus of Chefs. It was a wonderful opportunity and one of the first steps towards achieving our ultimate goal of owning our own brick and mortar restaurant concept. This is now Chapter 2 of that journey.
JR Valrey: What are some of the ups and downs of being a chef and running a restaurant in Oakland?
Sarah Earring: This industry is grueling, and you have to love it or you won’t find the reward. And for me the reward is simply having the opportunity to share my passion for food with those who live and travel to the Bay Area. Oakland = Inspiration.
JR Valrey: Both of your addresses for Samara Southern Creations have been in downtown Oakland. What do you like about the area?
Sarah Earring: I love Oakland. I want to be a part of growth, opportunity and the revitalization of downtown Oakland. Community and culture in Oakland is unmatched in many ways, and it is a true blessing to be able to operate in such a beautiful and culturally rich city. We want people to remember all the good things the City of Oakland has to offer. Food is just one of the many things that attracts people here, and I want to make sure I offer the best to those who live in and visit Oakland.
JR Valrey: Can you explain what you offer as a caterer?
Sarah Earring: We offer full service catering and while our specialty is Southern, Cajun and Creole, we also offer many other cuisine options. We cater small to large events, private to corporate events, as well as offering affordable catering options for schools, nonprofits and other service oriented organizations.
JR Valrey: How could people make a reservation? How could people contact Samara Southern Creations for catering services?
Sarah Earring: They can visit our Instagram page and click the open table link to make a reservation, or they can call me directly or email me directly for both reservations and catering. Our business line is 415-377-3971, and our email is Samarasoutherncreations@gmail.com. Our website is under construction but will relaunch in December.
JR Valrey is a veteran journalist who can be heard weekly on Wednesdays on 89.5FM KPOO or KPOO.com from noon to 3 p.m. His work can also be heard on www.blockreportradioworld.com.
