|
Beginning this issue, we will get up close and personal with personalities
from the world of gastronomy. Here, we speak to Mike Wong, Assistant
Food & Beverage Manager, Marina Mandarin Singapore, to find out what
tickles his palate and his heart.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Mike Wong
Assistant Food & Beverage Manager Marina Mandarin Singapore |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Q: Who is your dream dinner date?
MIKE: As an ardent tennis fan, I would say Steffi Graf because she is the winner of 22 Grand Slam Singles Titles and probably the only person on this planet to have at least won 4 times at the Grand Slam
events.
Q: Where would you bring your date for a special occasion?
MIKE: For me, the best restaurant is 'home' because I can cook up a storm and dine in comfort. Having said that, I think it all depends on what the occasion is. It can be prepacked picnics in the park complete with a basket of gourmet snacks and a nice bottle of wine or a late night sojourn to my favourite roadside soya bean stall for supper – it's also about being at a place that holds sentimental value for the both of us.
Q: What is your recommendation for couples looking for that special gourmet experience?
MIKE: Italian food to me is one of the world's most romantic cuisines. My 2 favourite restaurants are Il Lido in Sentosa where couples can enjoy romance under the stars or at Ristorante Bologna where the inviting ambience, warm service and culinary delights will leave a lasting, delightful and memorable experience for anyone looking to impress that special someone.
Q: What drives your passion in this industry?
MIKE:The F&B industry is dynamic. The challenges and rewards give me the fuel to press on. Food is absolutely central to our lives and being able to take it and turn it into a pleasurable, multi-sensory experience is both a challenge and blessing for me. This industry allows me to step-up to lifting standards, challenge norms and to be creative not only in the way food is prepared, but also how it is presented. The satisfaction of watching your ideas take flight gives me satisfaction beyond words.
Q: What would your special meal for that special someone consist of?
MIKE: My personal favourite is slow cooked Wagyu steak accompanied by garden vegetables dressed with Cabernet Sauvignon Jus. This will be followed by home-made strawberry cheesecake with gold dusted chocolate truffles. Great company is also an essential ingredient in transforming any occasion into a special one.
|