Malcolm Lee is a Singaporean chef and champion of Peranakan cuisine, best known for Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant.
Refined, authentic yet innovative Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine rooted in family recipes. This profile looks at Malcolm’s background, career and signature approach.
TL;DR
- Singaporean
- Known for Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant
- His culinary journey began by helping his mother and grandmother cook Peranakan food as a child.
- In 2022 he opened a second restaurant, Pangium, exploring contemporary Straits cuisine.
- Refined, authentic yet innovative Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine rooted in family recipes.
Malcolm Lee key facts
| Name | Malcolm Lee |
| Nationality / born | Singaporean |
| Known for | Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant |
| Location | Singapore |
| Style | Refined, authentic yet innovative Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine rooted in family recipes. |
Background and career
He opened Candlenut in 2010 and it received a Michelin star in the inaugural 2016 Singapore guide. His culinary journey began by helping his mother and grandmother cook Peranakan food as a child.
Recognition and legacy
He was the first Singaporean recipient of the Miele Guide Scholarship. In 2022 he opened a second restaurant, Pangium, exploring contemporary Straits cuisine.
Signature style
Refined, authentic yet innovative Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine rooted in family recipes. It is an approach that has made Malcolm a distinctive figure in the food world.
Malcolm in context
Malcolm Lee is one of the chefs featured on Pickup Table 4, alongside Han Li Guang and Damian D’Silva.
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Malcolm Lee FAQ
Who is Malcolm Lee?
A Singaporean chef and champion of Peranakan cuisine.
Where is Malcolm based?
Singapore.
What is Malcolm known for?
Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant.
What is a notable fact about Malcolm?
He opened Candlenut in 2010 and it received a Michelin star in the inaugural 2016 Singapore guide.
What is Malcolm’s style?
Refined, authentic yet innovative Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine rooted in family recipes.
