Celebrity Chef Justin Quek Of Sky On 57 Celebrates Singapore's 50th Anniversary At The Daily Meal

This year, the nation of Singapore celebrates its fiftieth year of independence — its Golden Jubilee — and the young republic is expanding its festivities all the way to New York City, where Singapore's vibrant cultural history will be celebrated with special events through the end of September.

Among the Golden Jubilee events in New York, there will be live performances, a number of art exhibits, and of course, a mouthwatering Singapore Restaurant Week featuring Singapore-inspired dishes from more than 20 restaurants, and a number of culinary events — presented by the Singapore Tourism Board in collaboration with The Daily Meal.

Earlier this week, The Daily Meal hosted a celebration of Singapore's fiftieth year of nationhood with "A Taste of Singapore" in collaboration with James Beard Foundation Greens, the James Beard Foundation's membership category for "foodies under 40." 

Featuring the Franco-Asian cuisine of celebrity chef Justin Quek, the evening was a delicious way to introduce New Yorkers to Singaporean cuisine, and give Singaporeans in New York a taste of home.

After welcoming guests with seafood yusheng — a plate of scallops, hamachi in ginger flower dressing, and organic microgreens — chef Quek described his culinary sensibilities.

"You've tasted hawker food before, but mine is a little different," the chef said. "It's all the tastes of Singapore, elevated to the highest level."