Chua Lam, Celebrated Food Critic, Passes Away at Age 83

Chua Lam, known for his profound influence on Chinese cuisine and television, passed away in Hong Kong at the age of 83, marking the end of an era for food criticism and cultural commentary in the region.

Chua Lam, the celebrated food critic and cultural icon revered across the Chinese-speaking world, has passed away at the age of 83. His official social media account confirmed the news, reporting that he died at the Hong Kong Sanatorium Hospital, surrounded by family and friends.

In accordance with his final wishes, there was no public ceremony, and his body was cremated, as stated in a post on his Weibo account, which did not disclose the specific cause of death.

Chua was recognized as one of Hong Kong’s "four greatest talents," a title he shared with other cultural luminaries including Cantopop lyricist James Wong Jim and famed novelists Jin Yong and Ni Kuang. His journey began in the 1960s when he relocated to Hong Kong, where he not only produced films—many of which starred action icon Jackie Chan—but also discovered his passion for writing.

Initially invited to pen a column for a local newspaper, Chua became renowned for his writings on food and restaurants, leading to his emergence as a noted food critic. His influence grew throughout the 1990s and 2000s, during which he became a prominent voice in the discourse on Chinese cuisine, engaging audiences through various television shows and publications.

In 2012, Chua served as a consultant for "A Bite of China," a documentary series that showcased the richness of Chinese culinary traditions. However, following a serious fall in 2023 that resulted in a fractured pelvic bone, Chua largely withdrew from the public eye, a period marked by personal tragedy as he lost his wife later that same year.

Chua Lam's contributions to the world of food criticism and cultural discourse continue to resonate, ensuring his place in the hearts of many.