HK-LEE
ARTISAN CHEF
FROM CARVING AND LOVE OF COOKING TO MICHELIN STAR
As a chef, I strive to convey my efforts, passions, and emotions to the customer through the medium of food. What I find
most gratifying in my role is the moment when a customer relishes the meal I have prepared a simple nod of approval or a subtle
smile that speaks volumes, expressing, 'This dish is delicious.' That, for me, is truly fulfilling.”
BACKGROUND
I hail from Johor State, Malaysia, a place known for its rich cultural
diversity and a plethora of cuisines. In our beautiful country, where
people of various backgrounds coexist, my absolute favorite dish
comes from the heart of Hakka cuisine and is affectionately known
as Pounded Tea or 'Lei Cha.'
This dish holds a special place in my heart, especially during our
family gatherings, where my dear mother takes the reins to craft
her signature "Lei Cha." The kitchen is filled with the enticing
aroma of a variety of vegetables, the delightful crunch of roasted
peanuts, and the savory goodness of dried shrimp adding that
perfect umami touch. Once you've experienced the magic of "Lei
Cha," its taste becomes an unforgettable memory that lingers on
your palate.
For me, this dish is more than just a culinary delight; it symbolizes
the warmth and togetherness of family, creating cherished
moments that we carry with us. It's a flavor-packed journey that we
embark on together, making every family gathering a truly special
occasion.
MICHELIN JOURNEY
• Initiated my culinary journey
at the age of 16. Accumulated a decade of culinary experience, with a particular focus on
Cantonese and Hakka cuisine in Malaysia.
• Since 2003, I move out my country in order to contributed six years to Hakkasan Hanway Place, London, before assuming a role in Hakkasan Abu Dhabi as a key member of the launch team and Executive Chef.
• Since 2010, I prompted as a Executive Chef, amassed an additional 15 years of dedicated service at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, culminating in the prestigious recognition of continuous Michelin stars in both 2022, 2023 and
2024.
CHEF LEE IS NAMED THE BEST CHINESE CHEF IN MIDDLE EAST
Chef "HK Lee" Kok Hua become the first asian chef to receive the global title " The best chef of the year 2010" from the What's on, Abu Dhabi & one stars Michelin Chef in 2022, from the Michelin guide, UAE.
I'm truly honoured to be names ' The First Chinese Michelin Chef in the UAE' and humbled to be the first Asian who have paved the way before me.
As a Malay Chinese, I feel proud that I'm able to bring the words of Cantonese food, the arts of Chinese cuisine, to the world stage, and hopefully to take true Asian flavours around the world with me, and not just the common dishes. I want to show the world that Cantonese cuisine has so many sub-cuisine and we have a deep culinary history especially 'Dim Sum'.
'' Above all, I hope this award inspires the next generation of Chinese chef to pursue their culinary dreams,"
“Cooking has evolved beyond its
traditional purpose"
It is now a silent bridge' connecting the chef
and the customer. Communication
occurs through the carefully
curated ingredients on the plate,
eliminating the need for verbal
exchange.
MEET CHEF LEE'S LEADING THE LASTEST RESTAURANT
Hakkasan named as the Best Chinese Restaurant in UAE.
Restaurant Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, helmed by Chef Lee has won 8 consecutive award.
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1 Michelin star from Michelin Guide
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Ranked #24 in 2022& #49 in 2023 Middle East&North Africa 50 best restaurant from World 50 Best Restaurant.
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Win 1 toque Gault&Millau Middle East in year 2022, 2023, 2025.
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What's On Award, Abu Dhabi, 2010 Best Newcomer&Best Chef of the Year, 2011~2014 & 2016 Best Restaurant of the Year , 2010&2011, 2013 Favourite Far Eastern Restaurant
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Time Out Award, Abu Dhabi,
2010 Best Newcomer
2011~2016&2018&2023&2025 Best Chinese Restaurant
2017 Highly commended Best Chinese
2017&2019 Higly commended Best Restaurant Bar
2018 Highly commended fine dining brunch Restaurant
2018~2019 Highly commended Romantic Restaurant
2023 Highly commended best A la carte Brunch
6. Gourmet Star Awards, Abu Dhabi
2012 Best Restaurant of the Year
7. Caterer Middle East Awards, Dubai
2013 Best Chef of the Year
2013 Restaurant Team of the Year(Independent outlet)
8. Fact Dining Award, Abu Dhabi
2015~2020 Best Chinese Restaurant
2015&2016 Restaurant Team of the Year(Independent Outlet)
2018~2019 Best Independent weekend
Meet the Dish
Empower the philosophy of HK. Lee
