Chef Chow Chang Hwa stands at the forefront of Helsinki’s dynamic restaurant scene, renowned for his innovative approach to global cuisines. As the co-founder and head chef of three distinctive dining establishments—Street Canteen, Holy Crab, and Gaucho—Chow has introduced Helsinki to a diverse array of flavours, each offering a unique culinary experience.
Street Canteen: A Taste of Malaysia in the Heart of Helsinki
Street Canteen brings the vibrant street food culture of Malaysia to Finland. The restaurant features a menu rich in traditional Malaysian dishes, including Nasi Goreng Kunyit (turmeric fried rice), Char Kway Teow (stir-fried rice noodles), and Rendang (a slow-cooked beef curry). Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, such as rendang curry with tofu and lemongrass tofu. A standout feature is the extensive salad bar offered during weekday lunches, providing guests with a variety of fresh, Asian-inspired salads to complement their meals and enhance the authentic street food experience.
The inspiration for Street Canteen stems from Chow and his partner's deep connection to their Malaysian heritage. Their vision was to recreate the essence of Malaysian street food—bold, aromatic, and full of character—using authentic ingredients and techniques.
Commitment to sharing the flavours of Malaysia has made Street Canteen a cherished spot for both locals and visitors in Helsinki. Through his passion and dedication, he has introduced many to the rich culinary traditions of Malaysia, fostering a greater appreciation for the diverse world of Asian cuisine.
Whether you're a long-time fan of Malaysian food or a newcomer eager to explore, Street Canteen offers an authentic and memorable dining experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Malaysia.
Holy Crab: Finland’s First Seafood Boil Restaurant
Holy Crab, situated at Kluuvikatu 7, offers a unique dining experience centered around the American-style seafood boil. Guests can enjoy a communal feast where succulent seafood, brimming with Cajun spices, is poured directly onto the table. The restaurant's menu features a variety of seafood options, including lobsters, crabs, shrimp, mussels, and octopus, all seasoned with bold flavours. Patrons are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and indulge in the joy of shared dining. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service have garnered positive reviews, with many praising the attentive staff and the quality of the seafood.
Gaucho: A Brazilian Churrasco Experience
Gaucho Churrasco Restaurant & Bar, located on Aleksanterinkatu, introduces Helsinki to the traditional Brazilian rodizio-style barbecue. The restaurant's concept is inspired by the grilling techniques of South American gauchos, where premium meats are grilled over an open flame and served tableside. The menu features an array of meats, all seasoned with simple yet flavourful spices with the aim of creating an authentic Brazilian atmosphere. Despite a change in concept, his kitchen team continues to remain majority Malaysian.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Passion
Chow Chang Hwa's journey into the culinary world is deeply rooted in his Malaysian heritage and a passion for sharing authentic flavours. His restaurants reflect a commitment to quality, authenticity, and a genuine desire to introduce Helsinki's diners to diverse culinary traditions. Through Street Canteen, Holy Crab, and Gaucho, Chow has created dining experiences that not only satisfy the palate but also celebrate the rich tapestry of global cuisines.
Whether you are in the mood for the bold spices of Malaysian street food, the communal joy of a seafood boil, or the smoky flavours of Brazilian barbecue, Chow Chang Hwa's establishments offer a culinary adventure that transports diners to different corners of the world. His dedication to excellence and innovation continues to shape Helsinki's dining landscape, making his restaurants must-visit destinations for food enthusiasts.
Background
Chef Chow Chang Hwa has been in Finland since 2005 and hails from Sg Lembing, Pahang. For the past 16 years, he has been harnessing his skills in a number of eateries, beginning with the famous New Bamboo Centre Restaurant for 10 years, followed by Momotoko (a Japanese chain) of which he had been a share partner for six years. He now oversees operations for the three restaurants under his portfolio.
An admirable, hardworking, and self-made man, Ah Chow completed his education at the age of 14 before working in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Prior to that, he was a carpenter in Malaysia and came to Finland to be a cook. He did not even know how to cook rice at the time—but his story is a testament to what hard work and determination can achieve.
One of his driving motivations for opening his restaurants is to put Malaysia on the map and do his part for the country abroad. His goal is to make Malaysia known and immediately recognisable to the Finnish public.
Explore Chef Chow Chang Hwa’s Culinary Ventures in Helsinki:
Street Canteen – Dive into the bold, authentic flavours of Malaysian street food
www.streetcanteen.fi
Holy Crab – Finland’s first seafood boil restaurant with Cajun flair
www.holycrab.fi
Gaucho – Experience traditional Brazilian churrasco in the heart of the city
www.gaucho.fi
