South Korean monk Jeong Kwan is the 2022 recipient of the prestigious Icon Award – Asia 2022. Voted for by the 300-plus members of the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy, the venerated Buddhist monk is recognised for her philosophical approach to cooking and her mastery of ancient temple cuisine.
Jeong Kwan joined a Buddhist monastery at age 17 and immersed herself in the centuries-old traditions and cooking techniques of temple cuisine. Her impeccably crafted dishes reflect her innate creativity, technical skills, and deep respect for seasonal ingredients. A respected cook, Jeong Kwan has earned the respect of the world’s most celebrated chefs, from Noma’s René Redzepi and Eric Ripert of New York’s famed Le Bernardin to compatriot Mingoo Kang of Mingles.
William Drew, Director of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, says: “As a guardian of Korean temple cuisine, she is confirming her status as an international culinary icon thanks to her refined mastery of flavours, delicate artistry and spiritual approach to cooking.”
Jeong Kwan’s achievement will be highlighted as part of the online ceremony for Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 on 29th March, which will be broadcast to a global audience via Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Facebook and the 50 Best Restaurants TV YouTube channels. To mark the occasion, 50 Best will also host events in Bangkok, Tokyo and Macau, giving gastronomic communities the opportunity to celebrate in person.
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