Biography
Quek is Teochew and his family business in the past was a fruit stall in Queen Street. His father died when he was seven. He has 11 other siblings and he attended Broadrick Secondary School.
Quek had always wanted to travel. After his National Service in Singapore, at 20 years old, Quek managed to get a job as a steward. It was after two years as a seaman that lead him to his passion of cooking.
He then went on to learn the basics of cooking at the Singapore Hotel and Tourism Education Center (SHATEC) for one year. After his graduation in 1986, Quek continued his culinary training at The Oriental's hotels in Bangkok and Singapore under chef Bertrand Langlet, who encouraged him to go to France to further his training.
In 1991, Quek used his life savings of $40,000, to travel to France to greatly improve his skills.
He returned to Singapore in 1992, taking the place of personal chef at the French Embassy, serving two high commissioners.
Quek then joined Les Amis at Shaw House, Singapore. In 2004, He left Les Amis to establish a new restaurant called La Petite Cuisine in Taipei. He has since opened another French eatery La Platane, a fine-dining Chinese restaurant Villa du Lac and a restaurant named Fountain. All three are located at Xintiandi, Shanghai. Sold all businesses in Shanghai in January 2009 . Opened Just In Bistro & Wine Bar, Taipei in April 2009, and one fine-dining French restaurant Justin's Signatures in Dec 2009. Consultant to Whisk, The Mira Hong Kong and The French Window, IFC Hong Kong.
In 2010, Quek opened Sky On 57 at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, showcases a delectable array of Modern Asian Cuisine, delivered with warm Asian hospitality and a breathtaking view of the Singapore skyline. He is married and has a son.
Read more about this topic: Justin Quek
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