Bjorn Shen is a Singaporean chef known for bold, irreverent cooking, best known for the restaurants Artichoke and Small’s and judging MasterChef Singapore.
Bold, irreverent, Middle Eastern-influenced cooking that prizes substance over polish. This profile looks at Bjorn’s background, career and signature approach.

TL;DR
- Singaporean
- Known for the restaurants Artichoke and Small’s and judging MasterChef Singapore
- He began his culinary career as a dishwasher in 2004 before opening multiple food businesses.
- He serves as a judge on MasterChef Singapore.
- Bold, irreverent, Middle Eastern-influenced cooking that prizes substance over polish.
Bjorn Shen key facts
| Name | Bjorn Shen |
| Nationality / born | Singaporean |
| Known for | the restaurants Artichoke and Small’s and judging MasterChef Singapore |
| Location | Singapore |
| Style | Bold, irreverent, Middle Eastern-influenced cooking that prizes substance over polish. |
Background and career
He is chef-owner of Artichoke, a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant, and the chef’s-counter concept Small’s. He began his culinary career as a dishwasher in 2004 before opening multiple food businesses.
Recognition and legacy
He is the author of a cookbook about Artichoke, his most rebellious kitchen. He serves as a judge on MasterChef Singapore.

Signature style
Bold, irreverent, Middle Eastern-influenced cooking that prizes substance over polish. It is an approach that has made Bjorn a distinctive figure in the food world.
Bjorn in context
Bjorn Shen is one of the chefs featured on Pickup Table 4, alongside Malcolm Lee and Han Li Guang.
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Bjorn Shen FAQ
Who is Bjorn Shen?
A Singaporean chef known for bold, irreverent cooking.
Where is Bjorn based?
Singapore.
What is Bjorn known for?
The restaurants Artichoke and Small’s and judging MasterChef Singapore.
What is a notable fact about Bjorn?
He is chef-owner of Artichoke, a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant, and the chef’s-counter concept Small’s.
What is Bjorn’s style?
Bold, irreverent, Middle Eastern-influenced cooking that prizes substance over polish.
