“Waking up to clanging pots and pans and the smell of coconut rice and chicken curry stay vivid in my memories.”

Chef Paul’s hometown of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a vibrant culinary crossroads of Cantonese, Malay, South Indian, Southeast Asian and European influences.

Early on, he developed a passion for preparing authentic Malaysian dishes using local produce, meats, and spices. He learned his craft from family and neighbors and later from skilled chefs in restaurants in Kuala Lumpur.

After moving to the United States, he trained and worked at several restaurants throughout the greater Cincinnati area. Chef Paul’s first restaurant, Straits of Malacca, served traditional Malaysian street food.

Chef Paul’s passion has led to his new catering venture, Citrus and Sago, where he can fully explore his inspiration to use European and Asian flavors and showcase his broad experience and unique style. All dishes are cooked from scratch using the best local ingredients — including his popular roast duck, served to former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Chef Paul’s Citrus & Sago is dedicated to sharing a love of dishes that delight, surprise and bring people together in a shared culinary experience.

In-house service is also offered at Chef Paul's Sago Restaurant.

Sago Restaurant was featured in Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, Season 38 Episode 2.

Reviews:

• “Highly Recommended: Chef Paul Liew's stunning version of Malaysia's national dish”

• “Amazing Authentic Malaysian in Mount Lookout”

• “… a little hole in the wall gem..”

• Bon Appétit

• Cincinnati Bites