inspired by excellence, driven by passion
chef alex chen
about chef alex chen
A Story of Discipline, Global Ambition, and Pacific Northwest Flavour
Chef Alex Chen's culinary journey is a masterclass in precision, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, deeply informed by his cultural roots and the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
Born in Malaysia and raised in Vancouver, Alex began his career washing dishes and bussing tables, quickly falling in love with the intense rhythm and high-stakes camaraderie of the professional kitchen. This passion led him to spend over a decade honing his classical technique in some of North America’s most demanding luxury hotels, including the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel and the Four Seasons properties both in Canada and the USA.
The Competitive Edge
Alex's classical training and competitive spirit didn't just shape his technique—they propelled him onto the world stage. In 2013, he achieved a historic milestone, leading Team Canada to a Top 10 finish at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or in Lyon, France. This intense experience defined his commitment to perfection and later brought him back to the competition as a Team Canada Judge in 2024.
Domestically, his competitive streak blazed a trail of victories. He achieved top honours at the annual Gold Medal Plates regional championships in Victoria, B.C., in both 2015 and 2017. The pinnacle came in 2018 when he claimed the gold medal at the national Canadian Culinary Championships and was simultaneously named Chef of the Year at the Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards. He solidified his status as a culinary titan by becoming the winner of the inaugural Iron Chef Canada competition.
Culinary Leadership in Vancouver and Whistler
In 2014, Alex launched Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar in Vancouver, quickly establishing it as one of Canada's top dining destinations, earning repeated placements on the Canada's 100 Best Restaurants list. His success was further solidified with the Pinnacle Chef of the Year Award (2019) and his induction into the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame (2024).
In 2022, he expanded his vision to the mountains, opening Wild Blue Restaurant + Cocktail Bar in Whistler as Chef and Partner. Under his direction, Wild Blue immediately secured critical acclaim, including the #2 Best New Restaurant Award from Air Canada enRoute.
Mentor, Media Personality and family man
Beyond his restaurants, Alex has become a prominent figure in national culinary media, sharing his expertise and mentorship as a chef and judge on shows like Wall of Chefs and Top Chef Canada.
Despite his global achievements, Alex remains deeply connected to Vancouver, the city that shaped his appreciation for Pacific Northwest ingredients. It is here that he and his wife, Elizabeth, are raising their two teens, passing down the cultural traditions and values that inform his work.
Today, Chef Alex Chen continues to influence Canada’s dining culture, guided by a simple, profound philosophy: "Home is where I often create my best work. When you’re cooking for family or loved ones, there is no pretense—only intention, joy, and the desire to nourish."