Food is one of the most universal languages in the world, and this November, that language is Minnan. From November 3 to November 16, 2025, Le Méridien Putrajaya is bringing the flavors of southern China to Malaysia with the Minnan Cuisine Specialty Promotion at Le Mei Chinese Restaurant.
This two-week event is a special collaboration between Le Méridien Putrajaya and Sheraton Grand Xiamen, China, featuring guest chef Lou Qiqi, a culinary expert known for his artistry in Fujian-style cooking.
If you’re a foodie who loves exploring regional Chinese cuisines or discovering new flavor stories, here are seven reasons this event deserves a spot on your must-try list.
1. A Rare Cross-Country Collaboration
In a world where culinary experiences are often fleeting, this partnership between Le Méridien Putrajaya and Sheraton Grand Xiamen stands out. It’s a culinary exchange where two cultures meet through food.
For two weeks, Le Mei Restaurant transforms into a portal to southern China, with dishes that honor Minnan heritage while fitting seamlessly into Malaysia’s love for bold, layered flavors.
2. The Expertise of Guest Chef Lou Qiqi
Behind every memorable dish is a chef with a story, and Chef Lou Qiqi has plenty to tell.
As the Chinese Kitchen Chef at FU GONG, Sheraton Grand Xiamen Jimei, he brings over 20 years of experience to this special event. Trained under the esteemed Culinary Master Chen Yongchuan, Chef Lou is celebrated for his mastery of Fujian cuisine, his flair for fusion, and his belief that:
“Cooking is not just a skill, but a way of life.”
His talent has earned him accolades, including the Special Gold Award at the 23rd Xiamen City Workers’ Culinary Skills Competition and now, Malaysian diners get a front-row seat to his craft.
3. Discover the Soul of Minnan Cuisine
So, what makes Minnan cuisine (闽南菜) so special? Originating from southern Fujian province, this regional style is famous for its light, balanced flavors and deep respect for ingredients.
Think:
- Slow-simmered soups that taste like home.
- Seafood dishes bursting with freshness.
- Natural seasonings that enhance without overpowering.
Minnan cuisine is often described as gentle, soulful, and nuanced, the kind of cooking that doesn’t shout, but speaks softly with confidence.
4. A Menu Full of Minnan Masterpieces
Here’s where the magic happens — the specialty menu Chef Lou has designed exclusively for this promotion. Every dish highlights Minnan’s trademark balance between simplicity and depth:
- “Quan Zhou” Double-boiled Beef Short Ribs Soup
A clear broth slow-cooked with Chinese herbs and tender beef ribs. It’s pure comfort in a bowl. - Minnan Style Braised Duck with Ginger
Rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced. The ginger brings warmth while the duck adds depth — a Minnan signature. - Stir-fried Lamb with Ginger and Premium Soya Sauce
A flavor-packed stir-fry that hits all the right notes — savory, fragrant, and satisfying. - Baked Sand Whiting Fish with Szechuan Pepper
Delicately baked fish with a gentle peppery kick — fresh, light, and full of character. - Steamed Squid with Pickled Yellow Chili and Chinese Seaweed
Tender squid meets zesty chili and seaweed for a dish that celebrates the sea. - Poached Clams in Chicken Broth
A soothing blend of sweetness and brininess — comfort food with refinement. - “Minnan Style” Steamed Glutinous Rice with Roe Crab in Lotus Leaf
Sticky rice infused with lotus leaf fragrance and the luxurious taste of crab roe. A dish that steals the show.
Each bite tells a story of home, heritage, and the hands that crafted it.
5. A Cultural Exchange on Every Plate
This isn’t just dining, it’s a cultural dialogue through food. Chef Lou’s visit brings the warmth and wisdom of Minnan cooking straight from Xiamen to Putrajaya. For diners, it’s a chance to explore authentic regional Chinese cuisine without boarding a plane.
It’s like a culinary passport, one that connects two cities, two traditions, and countless stories through shared appreciation for good food.
6. Dine in Style at Le Mei
The venue for this experience, Le Mei Chinese Restaurant, perfectly complements the event. Known for its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, Le Mei blends modern design with traditional Chinese touches, ideal for savoring dishes that bridge heritage and innovation.
Whether you’re there for a quiet date night or a special gathering with friends and family, Le Mei’s ambiance elevates the entire experience. Pair your meal with fine tea, and you’ll understand why this is one of Putrajaya’s top dining spots.
7. Two Weeks Only: Don’t Miss Out
Here’s the thing. This culinary celebration runs for just two weeks, from November 3 to November 16, 2025. Once it’s over, you’ll have to travel to Xiamen to experience these flavors again.
Given the exclusivity and Chef Lou’s reputation, it’s safe to say tables will fill up fast. If you’ve ever wanted to explore Chinese regional cuisines beyond the usual Cantonese and Sichuan fare, this is your chance.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Flavor and Connection
The Minnan Cuisine Specialty Promotion isn’t just a showcase of fine cooking. It’s an invitation to experience how food can bridge cultures.
Through this collaboration, Le Méridien Putrajaya and Sheraton Grand Xiamen are offering something rare and meaningful: a chance to taste Minnan heritage, lovingly reinterpreted by a master of the craft.
So go ahead and gather your fellow food lovers, make that reservation, and prepare to travel through taste. Because sometimes, the most unforgettable journeys don’t require a boarding pass, just an open mind and a good appetite.
Event Details
Event: Minnan Cuisine Specialty Promotion
Venue: Le Mei Chinese Restaurant, Le Méridien Putrajaya
Dates: November 3 – 16, 2025
Guest Chef: Lou Qiqi, Chinese Kitchen Chef of FU GONG, Sheraton Grand Xiamen Jimei
Reservations: 03 8689 6868
