Chef Heman, Iron Man Chef
For nearly four decades, Chef Heman Tan, widely known as the "Ironman Chef," has been a formidable and multifaceted force in Singapore’s culinary world. He is a man of extraordinary talents, blending the precision of a master chef with the endurance of an elite athlete, the artistic soul of a ceramist, and the heart of a devoted philanthropist. With a career spanning over 39 years, his journey is a testament to his relentless drive and commitment to pushing boundaries—both in and out of the kitchen.
A Culinary Journey of Innovation and Influence
Chef Heman's culinary path began with a meticulous focus on R&D at Prima Foods, a foundation that would define his innovative approach. Over the years, he has led the kitchens of major culinary groups, such as Soup Restaurant Group, and successfully owned two of his own restaurants, including the acclaimed Moonbow, which was celebrated for its "Modern European With Asian Influence" concept. His extensive experience also includes overseeing large-scale catering operations, where he expertly managed the preparation of thousands of meals daily without ever compromising on quality.
Now, as the General Manager, Chef, and Co-founder of American Mass Hall for Jas Prestige Group, Chef Heman is igniting Singapore's culinary scene once more. He is reimagining classic American dishes with a vibrant infusion of Asian zest, creating captivating dishes like tableside-smoked Angus Beef Short Ribs and "Bone drop" BBQ Iberico Prime Ribs. His influence extends beyond this flagship restaurant, as he also oversees the culinary direction for a diverse portfolio of local concepts under the Jas Prestige Group, including Asia Coffee House, JB Old Street Meng’s Zi Char, Yummy Steam, and Meng's Satay and BBQ.
Beyond the Kitchen: Artist, Athlete, and Author
What truly sets Chef Heman apart is his remarkable versatility. He is an accomplished ceramist and the last student of the late Dr. Ng Eng Teng, a legend in the field. Heman personally shapes and fires the ceramic wares on which his cuisine is often served, transforming dining into a holistic artistic experience. His award-winning ceramic works have been featured in prestigious venues, including the Singapore Sculpture Square and The Arts House.
Embodying his Ironman moniker, Heman is also a competitive triathlete and marathoner. This spirit of discipline and endurance permeates his professional life, where he frequently captains teams in international culinary competitions, consistently achieving top honors, including a National Team Gold Medal at the Pattaya Culinary Challenge.
Heman's knowledge and wisdom are also shared through his role as a prolific author and media personality. With seven books published to date, including titles like Balancing Health and Flavour – Plant Based Cuisine and Ceramic & Culinary Arts: Creations of Iron Man Chef Heman Tan, he offers readers insights into his culinary philosophy, artistic endeavors, and motivational life lessons. His charismatic presence has made him a sought-after personality on TV shows like “Love On The Plate” and “The Four Celebrity Chefs,” and he actively shares his culinary tips on his social media series, “The Iron Man Chef.”
Community Leadership and Philanthropy
Beyond his professional achievements, Chef Heman is deeply committed to giving back. His flagship initiative, Project IronRiceBowl, aims to empower less-privileged communities with valuable culinary and ceramic skills. He has also been involved in numerous other impactful programs, earning him an Honorary Doctorate in Social Work. A respected leader in the industry, Heman is a Certified Judge of the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS) and a former Executive Committee member of the Singapore Chef’s Association.
Chef Heman Tan is more than just a chef; he is a force of nature who blends artistry, flavor, and unwavering determination with unparalleled flair. His return to the restaurant helm with American Mass Hall marks a new and exciting chapter in Singapore's culinary story, promising a dining experience that is bold, innovative, and utterly unforgettable. He is now at Heman Find Holiao https://instagram.com/heman_find_holiao where he checks out the latest in the hawker and Asian street food scene. In the programme, the stalls are not on the Bib Gourmand list, however they are popular with locals, and usually his favourite stalls.