Just a few days back, Michelin announced the names of 97 restaurants in Malaysia that made it into the Michelin Guide 2023. Among the restaurants that receive Bib Gourmand is De Wan 1958, the restaurant that was founded by local celebrity chef, Chef Wan Ismail himself.
While his restaurant did not win the Michelin Star, some of his fans have asked if he is not going after that award. In two lengthy Instagram posts, Chef Wan explained why he doesn’t think he needs a Michelin Star award.
“I am not the best working chef like the rest running their own establishments,” he said.
Bib Gourmand is an award for restaurants that are world-famous yet provide good food at affordable prices.
The celebrity chef also said that his time has passed being out in the field as he’s old and he doesn’t have the passion and desire to be on the floor.
“I choose all my top chefs, I pay them well and let them do my work by guiding and training them to cook all my delicious recipes.”
He then assured the people by saying, “You will never see that Michelin Star in me.”
Chef Wan also made it clear that for the longest time, he has been recognised as World TV Chef Star, and that is more than enough for him. He also said that De Wan 1958 is run by many staff and it’s not easy to maintain, which most small Michelin Star chefs have the capability to focus on.
On busy days, De Wan 1958 serves up to 1,000 guests while handling other functions or events at the restaurant, and with how hectic things can be, Chef Wan said it’s not easy to maintain the quality as those Michelin-starred restaurants have.
“Michelin star restaurants use very expensive ingredients. Michelin Star chefs work very hard to build their names in the hospitality world and appreciate in value as the years go by.”
He also said that not everyone can afford to dine in at Michelin Star restaurants due to the expensive price, as they are targeting people with surplus income. He then highlighted that obtaining a Michelin Star is not easy, and for him, Bib Gourmand is more than enough and what he deserves.
“I’ll just cook on the TV. I don’t expect much in life. All of you, our loyal customers, we have so much to be thankful for.”
You can read his post below.
Congratulations to all the restaurants who made it to the list! Have you visited De Wan 1958 before, and do you think it deserves more than a Bib Gourmand?
Also read: Chef Wan Worries About His Mum’s Worsening Dementia, Disappointed That His Siblings Aren’t Visiting
