Lan Chan: The Critic Who Says “No Omakase, Thanks!”
In a sizzling Weibo post on August 22, 82‑year‑old Hong Kong food connoisseur Chua Lam left a jaw‑dropping statement about the beloved Japanese omakase trend. The Japanese practice, where the chef decides every plate, has fans swearing “yes, please!” – but Lam? He’s had enough.
“Treat diners like idiots” – that was the headline
In his blunt Chinese tweet, the Singapore‑born veteran critiquer said:
- “I’m not a fan of sashimi or omakase meals where the chef rolls the dice on everything.”
- “If I want a dish, just order it – no need to bother the chef.”
- “This menu‑by‑chef approach makes it easier for restaurants to tally costs, but it misses the soul of Japanese cuisine.”
Since going live, over 900 likes and 120 shares have poured in, and many echo its truth.
Backlash from a Newspaper Columnist
Yet the backlash came fast. On September 6, Zhou Xian of a Chinese newspaper slammed Lam, calling him “worse than an ordinary food blogger.”
What Xian said:
- Lam’s reputation was solid “30 years ago” – today, he’s “none of the food blogger game.”
- Sure, he knows a lot about ingredients, but “he’s never been to most top dining spots in Japan.”
- Omakase restaurants cut costs skillfully, providing premium ingredients for a fair price – a hallmark of real Japanese food.
Lam’s Take on Hong Kong’s Food Prices
On September 4, Lam posted an eye‑rolling commentary on Hong Kong costs:
- One banquet in Hong Kong runs about HK$1,000 (S$179) per person – people brag it’s cheap.
- Omakase bills can top HK$4,000 per diner.
- He quips, “With my life savings, I’ll eat at any restaurant in the world.”
But he tempers that with a word of caution on spending:
“If a dumpling or a burger comes with a hefty price tag but provides zero flavor, it’s just not worth it.”
Bottom Line
Lam is no stranger to controversy, but his firm convictions speak loud and clear. Whether you love or loathe omakase, one thing’s certain – the old man’s daring voice will keep food lovers talking and chefs listening.
Furore over hotpot
Lam’s Hotpot Hysteria and the Globe’s Backlash
Leung “Lam” isn’t a newcomer to the drama circle—minus the culinary twist—when it comes to stirring up fury over food. In 2019, he dropped a bomb on a Chinese talk show, questioning that entire “hype” surrounding hotpot.
Hotpot: The Crisis?
When the host asked him what dish he’d like to see “vanish from the world,” the answer was a simple, “hotpot.” “It’s just a pot of boiling water and a bunch of ingredients,” Lam shrugged. “Honestly, I can’t see what’s so tasty about it.”
The Online Rumble
- Netizens Go Berserk: Millions of Chinese netizens lit up in outrage. After all, hotpot reigns supreme—especially during Lunar New Year.
- Location Matters: One user pointed out that Lam was in Sichuan—the birthplace of the famous mala hotpot—when the comment went live.
- “Who’s Got the Balls?” A loyalstalker wrote: “Only Mr. Chua has the guts to make such a remark, and we’re in Sichuan!”
Why It Barks? The Cultural Fallout
Hotpot isn’t just a dish; it’s a social ritual, a comforting, communal experience. Lam’s dismissal felt like a slap to one of the nation’s favorite holiday staples.
Takeaway: The Culinary Public Square Is Volatile
When celebrities step on the hot cultural “plate,” the backlash can hit hard. Yeah, maybe you shouldn’t say “I don’t get hotpot” when you’re in Sichuan…but hey, at least we all learned today that food isn’t just food—it’s identity.
