Chef Steven Lee’s culinary journey is shaped by his heritage. His father, originally from Guangdong province in China, migrated to India in the 1940s. Born in Kolkata and raised in Tangra, the Chinatown of East Kolkata, Lee grew up in an area once known for tanneries, now transformed into a vibrant restaurant district. It was here that Lee developed a passion for Indo-Chinese cuisine, which he introduced to the UK around 21 years ago at Dalchini, a restaurant in Wimbledon.
With the UK’s rich multicultural diversity in mind, Lee brought popular Indo-Chinese dishes to the forefront, including Hakka Chicken, Crispy Okra Pepper Salt, Tai Pai Paneer, and Soya Chilli Fish, blending Chinese techniques with Indian flavours.
Lee’s experience includes roles at Spice N Ice in Croydon and Bombay Wok in Hounslow. In 2016, he launched his first business venture, Hakkaland in Harrow. After five successful years as a co-owner, Lee now focuses on his new venture, Hakka Garden, also in Harrow. His culinary expertise has earned him invitations to showcase his Indo-Chinese dishes on popular UK cookery shows on Zee TV and Colors TV.
Chef Ashis Dash is the culinary mastermind behind Hakka Garden in the UK. With extensive experience in Oriental cuisine, Chef Dash has honed his skills at some of the most prestigious establishments.
His career includes serving as an Oriental Chef at JW Marriott Kolkata and Hyatt Regency Kolkata, where he perfected his craft in authentic flavours. Additionally, he led the culinary team as Chef in Charge at Mainland China’s Colombo branch. Driven by a passion for innovation and a deep understanding of Oriental cuisine, Chef Ashis Dash continues to captivate food lovers worldwide.
