Chef Brian Chen (Abang Brian)
Chef Instructor
Building confidence, curiosity, and respect for the stories behind our food.
About
Abang Brian is an award-winning chef, educator, researcher, and media personality whose work sits at the intersection of culinary arts, culture, and food education.
A MasterChef Malaysia finalist with nearly 15 years in the culinary industry, Abang Brian’s career spans professional kitchens, private dining, curriculum design, and media production. He has authored seven cookbooks covering nutrition, health-focused cooking, and family food education, earning multiple Gourmand International Cookbook Awards. His work with organizations such as the National Cancer Society and the National Kidney Foundation reflects his belief that food is a powerful tool for healing and empowerment.
Abang Brian brings over a decade of teaching and curriculum development experience to Escoffier, including prior work as Lead Consulting Baker at Any Day Now Café in Washington, D.C., and Adjunct Instructor at Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia.
Holding a Ph.D. in Food Studies, Hospitality, and Tourism Management, his academic research explores the intersection of culture and healthy eating behaviors. Beyond the classroom, he hosts The Hungry Immigrant podcast, an international platform that explores identity, heritage, and belonging through food. He also serves as a Judge for the World’s Best School Prizes, and acts as an Ambassador for Thought For Food.
Abang Brian says what he most loves about his work is seeing lives changed. Whether through teaching, mentorship, or food itself, he finds it deeply rewarding to watch people gain confidence, shift their perspective, and recognize their own potential.
Honors & Awards
- Food System Changemaker - Thought For Food, 2022
- Gourmand International Cookbook Award (Health & Nutrition Category) - A Guide to Cooking for Your Kidneys: Living Well on Dialysis, 2019
- Gourmand International Cookbook Award (Corporate Category) - Beyond Rice Cooking, 2017
- Food Hero Asia – Top 4, 2015
- MasterChef Malaysia – Top 3 Finalist, 2013
Professional EXPERIENCE
- Media Chef & Culinary Personality – Television, Radio & Digital Platforms, Malaysia & International
- Managing Partner & Director of Teaching – Young Chefs Academy Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Adjunct Instructor – Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Lead Consulting Baker – Any Day Now Café, Washington, DC
Dish Examples
Pandan Mousse Cake
This pandan mousse cake blends classic pastry technique with a flavor deeply rooted in Southeast Asian food culture. Light, aromatic, and elegant, it uses pandan to evoke familiarity and memory while showcasing refined structure. For me, the cake represents the harmony between formal culinary training and cultural roots, and how traditional flavors can be elevated through thoughtful technique.
Nasi Lemak Sushi
Nasi lemak sushi reimagines Malaysia’s national dish using Japanese sushi techniques. Coconut-infused rice and classic nasi lemak elements are presented in a refined format, highlighting balance, precision, and respect for tradition. The dish is meaningful to me as it reflects my journey navigating culture and identity through food, showing how heritage flavours can evolve without losing their essence.
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Food Studies, Hospitality, and Tourism Management - Sunway University, Malaysia
- Master of Education - Open University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
- Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Accounting - Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Diploma in Cuisine and Pastry - Le Cordon Bleu Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
