When Jimmy Lim’s JL Studio was awarded three stars in the Michelin Guide for Taiwan in August, the Singaporean not only achieved a lifelong personal dream but also ignited the dreams of many others striving to find their way in the culinary world.
The son of a zi char chef, food has always been a passion for Lim. As a student he chose to study home economics in school purely for the fact that he “loved the idea of cooking”. Little did he know that by the age of 41, he would reach a milestone beyond his wildest dreams, cementing his place among the world’s greatest culinary masters.
The reveal in August not only marked the first time in history a Singaporean earned the guide’s top honour, it also propelled Singaporean cuisine onto the global stage, with JL Studio being the first and only Singapore cuisine restaurant with three stars. As one of just 140 three-starred restaurants worldwide in 2023, Michelin Guide’s recognition was the long-awaited proof of Lim’s firm belief that laksa and chilli crab belong among the world’s most illustrious cuisines.
“My relentless dedication has always been fuelled by the belief that Singaporean cuisine can shine on the international stage, transcending its reputation as mere hawker fare or street food,” Lim says.
As high an honour as it is, Lim, who also founded casual Singaporean eatery Chope Chope in Taipei, does not see the achievement as a “pinnacle”. Rather, he says, it is an “invaluable ticket” for Singapore cuisine to shine on a global stage. “All the years of unwavering effort have led us to this moment, a chance to step into the spotlight and showcase the essence of Singaporean cuisine.”
FROM FATHER TO SON
This story is from the November 2023 edition of Tatler Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2023 edition of Tatler Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mathew Leong
As the Norway-based Singaporean chef celebrates a milestone year both personally and professionally, he opens up about the toughest moments of his career and why failing is not an option
Asian Inspirations
Chef Ace Tan on his second restaurant, Asu-his love letter to regional Asian cuisine
State of the Arts
Arts nominated member of parliament Usha Chandradas discusses growing the creative economy by focusing on both supply and demand
Through a Curator's Lens
Circe Henestrosa, a fashion curator and the head of the School of Fashion at Lasalle College of the Arts, University of the Arts Singapore, merges her personal connection with artist Frida Kahlo with her extensive curatorial experience to explore intersecting themes of identity, disability and cultural heritage
Second Nature
Poet and educator Yong Shu Hoong brings fresh perspectives to the helm of the Singapore Writers Festival, from interdisciplinary perspectives to multilingual programmes
Wine Down
Nothing wraps up the day like a nice glass of vino. From flashy hedonistic escapades to geeky watering holes, these new wine bars promise celebrated viniferous pours that will please even the most discerning of oenophiles
A Legacy in Silhouettes
Kristina Blahnik, CEO of the designer shoe brand Manolo Blahnik and the niece of its legendary founder, shares her insights on preserving the house's heritage and introduces the new Manolo's Silhouettes campaign
To Have and to Hold
With its sumptuous textures, Loro Piana's elegant autumn/winter 2024 collection is a chic celebration of craft, quality and the universal appeal of tactility
Scent of Strength
Hermès unveils its first chypre perfume, Barénia―a captivating fragrance crafted by renowned perfumer Christine Nagel that embodies bold femininity and celebrates the brand's rich heritage
Nocturnal Revival
Nighttime skincare rituals will get a boost of supercharged restoration with La Mer's new Rejuvenating Night Cream