Chef Justin Quek: A culinary pioneer in the Lion city
Nothing happens by coincidence. Determination, perseverance, and hard work are the key ingredients which brought Chef Justin Quek to the 57th floor of the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore.
A believer
Singaporean chef, Justin Quek has been working hard from a very young age. From selling fruits at a local market, to working as a steward on merchant ships and finally landing his first position as personal chef of the French ambassador in 1992. From early on, he understood the ins and outs of hard work and that helped him to eventually become the award-wining chef we know today.
He started his culinary education at Shatec, then trained under French chef Bertrand Langlet at Oriental Hotel in Bangkok who aided in his ’tour de France’. Despite having to face the infamously tough French kitchens and the language barrier, he never gave up but preserved on and added to his skill set. He values the experience and it’s still one of his fondest memories.
A visionary
Before fusion cuisine became a trend, he already knew that his cooking style would be a harmonious blend of Asia and France, that would offer the best of both worlds.
So when he returned to Singapore after having trained in various French regions Chef Quek, introduced his rendition of French cuisine to Singapore’s culinary scene. While helming Les Amis restaurant, he added black truffle on the menu and worked with seasonal items. His signature dish, ‘Foie Gras Xiao Long Bao’ perfectly embodies his cooking philosophy – never overwhelming nor overpowering and simply well balanced.
An entertainer
Up in his restaurant, Sky on 57, he enjoys greeting his guests, chatting and sharing his cooking philosophy. He makes you feel welcomed as though you’re having a meal at his table at home. Humble, generous and voluble, he will no doubt inspire you through his food, travels, and stories.
Now, shaping the culinary landscape of Singapore, he is full of ideas and has recently launched his own range of sauces, for home cooks and food enthusiasts to replicate some of his recipes.
Chef Justin is a prime example who shows that with dedication and passion, one can definitely achieve his dream. While everyone loves to hearing such a success story, including us, Chef Justin reminds us that nothing is given nor won. So let’s get back to work!
Céline Manoukian
Photo credit: Marina Bay Sands
