Born on 15 October 1971 in Muar, Johor, Chef Alwi’s journey began in the heart of his family’s humble village kitchen. As the eldest of three siblings, he was raised on strong family values and immersed in the world of food from a tender age—long before he could read or write. Culinary expression became his first language, nurtured through the flames of a weathered gas stove at his parents’ small food stall.

His natural talent and unyielding passion led him to embark on a remarkable voyage as a young man—serving as a Chef aboard MISC for seven years. Sailing through the world’s oceans, he honed his culinary skills across more than 25 countries, absorbing the tastes, techniques, and traditions that would later define his signature style. These years at sea formed a deep reservoir of experience, as he learned that the soul of cooking lies in transforming simple, honest ingredients into extraordinary expressions of culture and heritage.

After returning to land, he joined the prestigious JW Marriott and YTL Group, further elevating his craft. Yet, the calling to build something of his own grew stronger. He aspired to create not just a restaurant, but a culinary legacy—a dining experience where every detail bore his essence.

This ambition gave birth to successful ventures such as Jook Bistro and Nautica Cafe, but his true masterpiece would later come to life with the launch of Alwi’s Food. Bearing his name, Alwi’s Food represents decades of refined expertise, unwavering dedication, and a deep respect for culinary artistry. More than just a restaurant, it is a personal canvas where tradition meets innovation—a place where every dish tells his story.

Now a respected figure in the culinary world, Chef Alwi continues to be highly sought after for his insight, vision, and mentorship. His mission has evolved into guiding aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs through restaurant consulting and turnkey projects, including notable names like Bara Restaurant and Zuca Italian Restaurant.

Expanding his influence beyond the kitchen, Chef Alwi has appeared as a television host, food critic, and now proudly serves as the Brand Ambassador for Al’ard Far East, representing premium Palestinian products, including his personal favourite—extra virgin olive oil.

Despite having achieved what many would consider a culinary pinnacle, Chef Alwi remains ever-evolving. With each new journey, recipe, and cultural encounter, he continues to enrich his craft. His passion is unwavering. His legacy, ever-growing. His kitchen, always open—to learn, to teach, and to inspire.