A boundless sense of adventure, Annabel Tan learns, has led Akira Back on an unpredictable journey from a professional snowboarder to an acclaimed chef with an inventive food philosophy.
It is near impossible to categorise chef Akira Back’s food; it’s not solely confined to just one cuisine, but rather, an amalgamation of the South Korean-American’s eclectic background. Born Baek Seung-Woo to South Korean parents in Seoul, he moved to Aspen, Colorado, at the age of 14 and has lived in the us ever since; he is now an American citizen. His formal training as a chef, however, was in classic Japanese cuisine.
“I always want to make food that represents me and my journey from when I was a kid to now,” explains Back, who has over 14 restaurants around the world and counting. “I want to mix all the flavours of my life together.” We are in his namesake restaurant at JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach, which the Las Vegas-based chef is here to check in on. He exudes a laid-back ease, but mid-interview, he suddenly sits up and points a stern finger at me. “Hey! You’ve eaten here before, right?”
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.
