Name

Cheong Liew

Adelaide’s most celebrated chef

The beauty of Australian food is that it reflects our community and, like our community, it’s even better if we embrace each others’ ideas and traditions.

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What was it like coming to Australia from Malaysia and starting your career in a Greek restaurant?

I picked up Greek cooking so easily and learnt Greek through talking in the kitchen. Originally I had to buy Greek cookbooks, because my English wasn’t good enough to understand the ones in English! I became obsessed with cookbooks as they helped me learn languages and understand where my colleagues were from, their history and culture.

Have you worked in culturally diverse work places?

In Australia, I have always been in the cultural minority working with people from other minorities – but the funny thing is, this is actually a very Australian experience. In my restaurants, I’ve worked with people from all over Europe, Korea, Sri Lanka, India, Asia and across the globe.

What role does food play in bringing people and cultures together?

The beauty of Australian food is that it reflects our community and, like our community, it’s even better if we embrace each others’ ideas and traditions.

Does food helps foster understanding between cultures?

Food is symbolic of every unique culture, as it tells the story of their festivities and celebrations, their agriculture, climate and environment, and the temperament of the people. You can tell so much about a person’s character by how and what they cook.

Why should Australians celebrate A Taste of Harmony?

Do your palate a favour and discover new flavours you can experience though celebrating cultural diversity. Food connects the world and A Taste of Harmony connects Australia.