Berlin's fusion pioneer The Duc Ngo unveils his first cookbook after 25 years

Berlin chef The Duc Ngo has released his first cookbook, The Duc Ngo – New Asian Cuisine. The publication arrives after 25 years of shaping the city's food scene. Known for his fusion cooking, he blends his heritage with modern techniques in both his dishes and the new book.

Ngo's culinary journey began in 1999 with Kuchi Kant, one of his earliest restaurants on Charlottenburg's Kantstraße. Over time, he expanded to 15 venues across Berlin, including well-known spots like Ryōtei 893, Funky Fisch, and Madame Ngo. Five of these Kantstraße locations were already running before the cookbook's release.

The book goes beyond recipes, sharing personal stories and the philosophy behind his restaurant concepts. He selected dishes based on their uniqueness, ensuring they represent his diverse cooking style. Some recipes are simple for home cooks, while others demand advanced skills.

His approach, described as 'fusion', mirrors his life experiences and cultural roots. The subtitle, New Asian Cuisine, highlights his contemporary take on traditional flavours. Ngo has also appeared on shows like Kitchen Impossible, where he competed against fellow chefs. Open about his career's ups and downs, he emphasises learning from mistakes as part of his success.

The cookbook offers readers a mix of practical recipes and personal reflections. It captures Ngo's influence on Berlin's dining culture over the past quarter-century. With 15 restaurants and a growing public profile, his work continues to redefine modern Asian cooking in the city.