Food is, without a doubt, treated as a national sport in Malaysia and these four couples pioneer in bringing the A-game to the F&B industry.

In the business of restaurants, it is not easy to maintain a prestigious establishment, no matter if it's a chain of restaurants, a humble cafe or a bar. 

From owner of Madam Kwan's, Datuk Rudy Foo and Datin Maureen Ooi to the spirited Fred Choo and Michele Kwok of Soul Society, these power couples from the 'Malaysia Tatler – The 300 List' have proven that two heads are better than one when it comes to building a food empire.

 


Fred Choo and Michele Kwok (Soul Society)

 

Known for their bright personalities with a knack for fun-filled soirees, Fred Choo and Michele Kwok have worked together for over 25 years and it has blossomed into Soul Society, a chain of restaurants, bars and cafés, which includes the Souled Out franchise, WIP and Hubba Hubba.

Together, they represent the two sides of one coin – different, yet complementary to one another. With Fred handling the financial side of things, Michele takes it upon herself to overlook the marketing and PR aspects of Soul Society.


Ewan Saufi Abas and Mariam Teh (Podgy and the Banker)

A new player to the F&B industry, Podgy and the Banker started in 2013 as an artisanal neighbourhood cafe in Sri Hartamas, opened by Ewan Saufi Abas and Mariam Teh. The idea sparked when Ewan discovered a love for coffee during a trip to Melbourne. 

Upon returning to KL, they rallied a few like-minded individuals to work on this venture and now, they have opened a second outlet in Mont Kiara and these two cafes have garnered a loyal following from coffee connoisseurs in the city.


Datuk Rudy Foo and Datin Maureen Ooi (Madam Kwan's)

When we speak of delicious local Malaysian food, Madam Kwan's is a name we never miss out. Helming this chain of restaurants are none other than Datuk Rudy Foo and Datin Maureen Ooi, a couple known for their tenacity and drive for success.

Thanks to their brilliant minds, Madam Kwan has crossed international borders and opened its first outlet in Singapore.


Datuk Jared Lim and Datin Dian Lee

One of the best looking couples in town, Datuk Jared Lim and Datin Dian Lee have extended their portfolio into the food and beverage industry, offering a string of diverse restaurant with impeccable delicacies.

From hip fusion cuisine at Ploy to healthy food delivery service at Healthy Ever After, the couple is set to  change the industry with their unique dining concepts.


 

 

More 300 lists: These young achievers are the ones who aim for the stars and have the natural aptitude to do so.