From Tradition to Transformation: “Heritage on a Plate” Reimagines Malaysian Culinary Narratives

Taylor’s Culinary Institute recently hosted an exclusive collaboration dinner at the Thyme & Tarragon Restaurant, themed “Heritage on a Plate: Reimagining Culinary Traditions.” The event brought together Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh and Taylor’s University in a distinguished partnership that celebrated Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage through contemporary interpretation and innovation. The menu was led by Chef Ahmad Fazli Abdul Rahman, Executive Chef of Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, in collaboration with Taylor’s Chef Lecturers led by Chef Sharizan Azali Mohamed Zamzuri. They presented an exceptional eight-course tasting menu, artfully designed to reinterpret Malaysian classics through modern fine-dining techniques.

Guests were treated to a culinary journey that commenced with a Serunding and Quail Egg Tartlet with kaffir lime crème, followed by a delicately balanced Cured Local Mackerel with pickled Bunga Kantan. The evening continued with a Pumpkin Velouté infused with lemongrass and coconut espuma, accompanied by a bespoke mocktail, Tradisi Legacy. Signature highlights included Butter-Poached Udang Galah in turmeric laksa broth and Charcoal Lamb Satay with Ketupat Croquette and caramelised shallot mousseline. The experience concluded with Belimbing Buluh Sorbet and a deconstructed Onde-Onde paired with Gula Melaka ice cream, a contemporary expression of nostalgia and artistry.

The evening was graced by distinguished guests from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, and leading partners from Malaysia’s hospitality and culinary industries. More than a gastronomic experience, the dinner served as a living classroom, offering Taylor’s students invaluable experiential exposure to collaborative menu development, advanced kitchen execution, and refined service management in a professional fine-dining environment.

This collaboration was made possible through the generous support of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn. Bhd, Emborg, Coliseum Cafe, and Monin, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing Malaysia’s culinary excellence.“Heritage on a Plate” stands as a testament to Taylor’s Culinary Institute’s unwavering dedication to cultivating globally competent culinary professionals through experiential learning, industry engagement, and the preservation of Malaysia’s rich gastronomic traditions.