The Next Course

Tell us more about what you do for work!
I’m a pastry chef, and I currently work at the one Michelin star French restaurant, Ma Cuisine.

Wow! What was it that made you want to pursue pastry-making?
It all comes down to the fact that I love to cook. I especially like exploring interesting flavour combinations, especially in desserts, which is why I went down this route instead of cooking.

Do you have more of a sweet tooth then?
No, I don’t actually. I don’t even like eating desserts—the most I do is taste them, that’s it! Of course, I do try to consume or taste new desserts every now and then just to gather inspiration, which is very important being in this industry.

What kinds of flavour profiles do you typically draw inspiration from, or like working with?
I like sweet and spicy flavours, like chocolate and chilli padi (bird’s eye chilli). Floral flavours are nice too.

We don’t suppose you cook much at home then, considering how you’re always in the kitchen for work?
The thing about chefs is we don’t usually cook at home, because we don’t like to bring work home. We get so tired from doing it for the whole day at work already, so we’d choose to eat out whenever we can.

What would your choice of death row meal be?
Can I pick two things? Kway teow goreng (stir-fried rice noodles) with cockles, and roasted chicken rice, drumstick, uncut.

Very specific—we like that! Outside of work, how do you enjoy spending your time?
I like to visit cafés or bars (I recommend Jū Kyū Restaurant & Bar along Telok Ayer), and once or twice a month, I like to try out a new fine dining spot.

What’s the most interesting dish or cuisine you’ve tried, be it in Singapore or elsewhere?
I would say Lebanese food in general. I travelled to Lebanon just a few months ago, and all of the herbs and foods that they consume there is different—I can’t even explain it, but just know that it’s something you can’t find anywhere else. It’s really unique and tasty!

You’re making us hungry! If you had to give up one of your five senses, what would it be and why?
My sense of smell. You need to hear or see to be able to communicate, whereas smelling…