A leading kitchen run by a woman is no longer newsworthy. But it is not quite commonplace, either. And a select few aren’t sitting around for change. That is why Chef Akane Eno of Ichigo Ichie is setting the stage for female leaders in the industry to learn from and elevate each other.
What results is a series of four-hands menus that are prepared alongside fellow female chefs; namely, Johanne Siy of Lolla, and Vasunthara Ramasamy. Through these, the cuisines, ingredients and techniques each chef is renowned for acquaint themselves with Chef Eno’s signature kappo cuisine, or vice versa.
The series extends a means for women to support women in what remains a male-dominated industry. The goal is not to focus on what has been denied of these experts — but to celebrate their talents and diversity, and set an example for budding individuals to continue this momentum. What this does is demonstrate women with power in gastronomy — who are breaking boundaries and making their presence felt across the culinary spectrum.
Onboard the series’ sophomore outing is Johanne Siy of Lolla, who was recently announced Asia’s Best Female Chef 2023 by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. The accolade honours the Singapore-based Filipino chef for her “considered emphasis on produce, seasonality and intentional simplicity in her work”. The Akane x Johanne menu spotlights a shared culinary philosophy both women are renowned for, where their food is incredibly ingredient-driven.
The 6-course experience comprises two of Chef Akane’s signatures from Ichigo Ichie, two of Johanne’s signatures from Lolla and two exclusive collaborative dishes.
Akane Eno x Johanne Siy’s 6-course collaborative menu ($328++ per person) is available on 30 April 2023 with two seatings: 5.30pm – 7.30pm and 8pm - 10pm
A curated selection of sakes and wines crafted by female sake brewers and winemakers is available as a five-drink pairing menu for an additional fee of $88++ per person.
Next, slated for 10 June 2023, Chef Eno taps on Vasunthara Ramasamy (Vasun), a former contestant of MasterChef Singapore Season 2 and the creator of South Indian private dining concept, Cutlery Optional. The Akane x Vasun menu serves a 6-course “Japindian” menu that features collaborative dishes from start to end. What results is an experimental food journey that presents an entirely foreign set of ingredients, cooking techniques and kitchen challenges to both chefs.
a. 1 Nanson Rd, #02-07A, Intercontinental Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909
