Double taste

Quek says that the concept is a representation of who he is: a Singapore-born Chinese Teochew, who loves Asian food, and culture, yet who trained in France and pursues the spirit of French haute cuisine.

Quek says that "young people have not grown up with fine dining" so a casual eatery that caters quality food is essential.

"Fine dining takes too long," he says, "Nowadays, people are too impatient. A cellphone on table is not rude anymore, even talking on the phone is common. The whole world is accepting a more casual dining experience."

On the other hand, Quek is trying to refine fine dining, as a means of pursuing his culinary passion.

"Young people are very open to new concepts, and fine dining establishments are the places to celebrate special occasions," he says.

Therefore, he wants to offer approachable haute cuisine, that is "simple, elegant, and fun".

"The food can be very classic and serious, but the experience should be fun with modern music, and a livelier atmosphere," he says.

Although his restaurant with its two distinct dining spaces has been open for slightly more than a year in a busy Beijing office building, it remains something of a hidden gem for those in the know as it gets little publicity.

Based in Singapore, Quek flies to Beijing once in a season to experiment and craft seasonal menus. When he is not there, the restaurant is helmed by Quek's favorite "apprentice", veteran chef Dan Chen.

Quek's most recent stint at the elegant restaurant Justin left patrons in awe with his Franco-Asian dishes.