Chef Glen Ballis began his culinary journey over thirty years ago in Melbourne, Australia when he worked as a dishwasher while attending culinary school. Upon graduation, his culinary talents would bring him to Thailand, Malaysia, Shanghai, Indonesia, Hong Kong, UK and finally Russia. During which time, he worked for Hyatt International, Bayan Tree Resorts, Shangri-la Hotels, Harrods in London and Nedalny Vostok in Moscow, before opening his own group of restaurants and bars in both Moscow and Singapore. His new one on Malaya Bronnaya Street “the Remy Kitchen Bakery” restaurant has its own cookery and a bakery. The dishes are an eclectic mix of Italian, French, Greek, Chinese and Japanese and are mostly prepared on a grill with fire.

Here Chef Glen shares with us candidly about his time in Malaysia and his aspirations for Moscow and Greece.

Aspire Lifestyles: You’ve lived in several countries, which is your favourite country and why?

Chef Glen: Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. It has the best balance between work and leisure, along with many outdoor activities available. You also have a fusion of different cultures, which grants you a variety of products. I had a good life there, it was affordable and the street food was amazing. So it was a full blend of everything, and it was welcoming to foreigners.

Aspire Lifestyles: Can you share with us why you’ve decided to stay and work in Russia?

Chef Glen: It is because Moscow was and still is a city of opportunity. Plus, I am involved in my own business here, and my family is Russian as well.

Aspire Lifestyles: You have been in Moscow since 2006, so what’re your favourite local delights and where do you go to have them?

Chef Glen: I don’t have any particular favourite place. I like to try different places as Moscow is a very beautiful city and has lots to offer to both locals and tourists alike.

Aspire Lifestyles: Chef Ballis, lastly can you share what your plans are for the next 5 years?

Chef Glen: For sure, we have plans to open more restaurants in Moscow. We have recently opened a new one in Moscow – Remy Kitchen Bakery on Malaya Bronnaya Street. I would also like to start more restaurants in Singapore or maybe in Greece.