Entertainment

From Fine Dining to Comforting Tea: The Inspiring Journey of Kenneth Teo

2025-04-23

Author: Li

A Revolutionary Tea Stall in Singapore

Meet Kenneth Teo, a culinary-passionate 30-year-old who has traded his fine-dining kitchen for a charming tea drink stall named Cha Mulan at Bedok Food Centre and Market. While the stall is picturesque and Instagram-worthy, the drinks it serves are a delightful spin on traditional Chinese tea.

Not Your Average Bubble Tea!

Unlike typical bubble tea, Cha Mulan offers a unique experience with wholesome Chinese tea infusions. Forget the tapioca pearls; here, you’ll find nourishing ingredients like goji berries, peach gum, poached pears, and snow fungus—all customizable for your preferred sweetness level!

A Culinary Journey and Personal Inspiration

Teo, a grad from a reputable culinary school, previously honed his skills at prestigious venues, including a one-Michelin-star restaurant and the acclaimed NEL Restaurant in Sydney. Inspired by his childhood memories of his grandfather’s hawker stall, he sees the hawker culture as integral to Singapore’s culinary identity.

Building His Own Dream

While he thrived in the high-stakes world of fine dining, Teo’s ambition to be his own boss was fueled by a desire for stability—shaped by his mother's struggles with job insecurity after losing her job during his youth. He realized that creating something enduring and meaningful was more fulfilling than just building someone else's dream.

Healthy Alternatives with Heart

Inspired by his girlfriend's love for bubble tea, Teo aimed to offer a healthier alternative with Cha Mulan. His star ingredient, peach gum, is a natural collagen known for its health benefits, making it a favorite among children for its delightful texture.

An Unexpected Partnership

A chance encounter with marketing expert Josiah Tan transformed Teo's solo venture into a dynamic partnership. Tan was captivated by the drink’s appeal and quickly sought to combine their strengths. With Tan's marketing prowess and Teo's culinary expertise, they rebranded the stall to Cha Mulan, aiming to contribute to their community’s well-being.

A Personal Mission and Future Goals

Tan’s passion runs deep. Reflecting on his grandmother's struggles with diabetes compared to the sugar-laden drinks of her time, he saw a chance for change. This, along with the goal of making health-conscious options accessible, drives their mission.

Plans for Expansion and Accessibility

Although they haven't broken even yet, Cha Mulan prides itself on its growth, with several locations already up and more to come. They plan to launch a kiosk at Jewel Changi Airport and a shop in Ang Mo Kio. Tan emphasizes their commitment to spreading their vision across Asia, eager to franchise and make healthy tea accessible to many.

Join the Cha Mulan Movement!

Cha Mulan is more than just a tea stall; it's a heartfelt journey. With a growing number of outlets in Singapore, they're open daily from 10am to 7:30pm, proving that you can sip sustainably while nourishing your body. Follow them on Instagram and TikTok to keep up with their latest offerings!