Is there a particular dish you’ve created that is significant? What makes this dish so meaningful to you?
Double-boiled supreme fresh fish maw soup Cantonese style in clay pot. Since it was my childhood favorite dish, I have been researching about inspiring tales, preferences, ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentations when I joined the culinary field in an effort to create a distinctive and exceptional style of my own. These days, I could say that it is genuinely successful since many clients adore its distinct yet genuine Cantonese style, which has great personal significance for me.
Can you recall a spontaneous food discovery in Bangkok? What made it so memorable?
I once visited to a tiny Cantonese street food place here in Bangkok. I was deeply impressed me by the exquisite flavors infused in each dish and the impeccable service. Their rich blend of ingredients and spices in every dish was distinctive. Equally remarkable was the personalized and heartfelt service provided by every member of the staff — not just the chef — having decision-making authority like an owner. It is very unique and difficult to find, in my opinion.
If you could embark on a culinary journey to any destination in the world right now, where would you go?
As a chef deeply rooted in the artistry of Cantonese cuisine, my culinary journey is not just about mastering techniques; it’s about continuous exploration and innovation. When it comes to discovering new flavors and techniques, there’s no better place to start than at the heart of Cantonese gastronomy – Guangzhou.
Guangzhou isn’t just my hometown; it’s a culinary mecca where tradition meets innovation, and where some of the world’s finest Cantonese chefs showcase their mastery. By immersing myself in the vibrant culinary tapestry of Guangzhou, I hope to unearth new inspirations, ingredients, and techniques that will elevate my craft to new heights.
But my appetite for discovery doesn’t stop there. Shanghai’s dynamic culinary scene beckons, offering a tantalizing array of flavors and influences waiting to be explored. From the bustling street food stalls to the elegant dining establishments, Shanghai promises a journey of culinary delights that will undoubtedly enrich my understanding of Cantonese cuisine and its endless possibilities.
Ultimately, my quest to explore these culinary havens is an opportunity for me to push the boundaries of creativity and improve my skills as a chef. Each dish, each ingredient, and each chef I encounter on this journey will contribute to my culinary repertoire, shaping me into a more versatile and innovative chef.
As a chef, what do you prioritize in your culinary creations?
My primary focus is always on the satisfaction and delight of my customers. In the kitchen, we find new ways to innovate and create dishes with our diners’ enjoyment in mind. Whether it’s adhering to traditional standards or incorporating the latest culinary trends, my goal is to provide an experience that exceeds expectations.
In a culinary landscape as diverse as Chinese cuisine, where celebrations and holidays are abundant throughout the year, I see endless opportunities to innovate and captivate. By staying attuned to seasonal ingredients and emerging trends, I can continuously refresh our menu offerings and introduce new, creative dishes that resonate with our guests.
For example, we celebrate the dragon boat festival which takes place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month each year (i.e. May or June). This is the time when everyone enjoys Zong Zi, also known as Bak Chang, which is a pyramid-shaped glutinous rice dumpling seasoned with premium ingredients and black soy sauce and wrapped in bamboo leaves. Chinese zongzi can be broadly categorised into southern and northern preparation styles, although there are many more regional varieties to consider. The Silk Road serves Cantonese Zong Zi, Hainanese Zong Zi and Abalone Zong Zi.
But beyond just culinary flair, consistency is paramount. I firmly believe that consistency is the cornerstone of enduring success in the restaurant industry. That’s why I strive to maintain unwavering standards of excellence in every dish that leaves our kitchen. Whether it’s a customer’s first visit or their hundredth, they can always expect the same level of quality and flavor that keeps them coming back for more.
Ultimately, my culinary creations are a reflection of my dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience for each and every one of our valued customers. From innovative flavors to unwavering consistency, their satisfaction is at the heart of everything I do.
Do you have a favorite activity you enjoy to unwind and recharge?
I find joy in exploring exquisite cuisine and dedicating time to exercise. As a chef, my passion for food extends beyond the kitchen, driving me to explore diverse culinary landscapes whenever I can. Whether it’s trying out new restaurants, experimenting with different ingredients, or immersing myself in the local food culture while traveling, every culinary adventure fuels my creativity and inspires new culinary creations.
Exercise is a vital part of my daily routine as it helps me maintain a balanced lifestyle. Engaging in physical activity is a great way for me to recharge my energy. Staying active contributes to my overall well-being and enhances my ability to thrive both personally and professionally.
As Head Chef for over two decades and counting at The Silk Road, The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok’s Cantonese restaurant, Chef Cheng Kam Sing has been instrumental in defining the culinary excellence that has become synonymous with both the restaurant and the hotel. His mastery of Cantonese and other regional cuisines of China is well recognised among critics and gourmands and his execution of such classics as Peking Duck and Fresh Fish Maw are legendary. Asked where his greatest strengths lay, he responds with his motto: “Learning Never Ends”.
About The Athenee Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
Set on the historic grounds of Kandhavas, once the palace of Princess Valaya Alongkorn, daughter of King Rama V, this five-star oasis exudes elegance and allure. Enriched by its storied heritage, The Athenee Hotel epitomizes luxury at every turn. From the iconic themes adorning its halls to the meticulous architecture that graces its façade, the true essence of The Athenee Hotel is an unwavering commitment to unparalleled service where every moment is infused with authentic Thai experiences. At The Athenee Hotel, every moment is an opportunity to escape, unwind, and reconnect with the essence of luxury living.
A five-star wonder, the hotel has eight exceptional dining venues, each offering a distinct gastronomic experience. Dining connoisseurs can choose from modern French delights at The Allium Bangkok, authentic Thai cuisine at The House of Smooth Curry, or outstanding Cantonese dishes at The Silk Road to progressive Japanese cuisine at Kintsugi Bangkok by Jeff Ramsey. Casual dining options await at The Bakery, Rain Tree Café, or poolside at The View. And for sophisticated cocktails and tapas, The Glaz Bar offers a stylish retreat for guests to unwind in splendor. For more information on The Athenee Hotel, visit their website here.
