Sorry, but Tony Tan is probably cooler than you. The legendary chef recently got married at Embla, was seen at dining Fitzroy hotspot Carnation Canteen months ago and has impeccable taste in books and film.

Tan, who runs a cooking school out of his home in Trentham, is about to release a new cookbook, Tony Tan’s Asian Cooking Class. We took five minutes with the chef to find out where (and what) he’s eating in Melbourne and Trentham.

What’s your go-to for a takeaway dinner?
Pacific House in Victoria because the roast meats are consistently great.

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And for a drink and snacks?
The Cosmopolitan in Trentham. It’s a local pub and hangout with a great atmosphere – especially in winter – where the chips and burgers are good.

If it’s a special occasion, where do you go?
Flower Drum always, because it has the best Cantonese food in town. Clean flavours featuring some of our best ingredients, such as pearl meat, cooked to perfection. I also love the seafood soup dumplings, served in an exquisite broth.

Where do you go if you’re looking for inspiration?
Embla because chef Dave Verheul’s menu always surprises. Last time I was there, I had the most intriguing grilled prawns. On paper, it doesn’t sound like much, but every mouthful is a joy to eat. And his roast chicken (if it’s on the menu) is a class act with that scent of smoke and precision cooking.

What’s the best comfort food?
Dumplings, of course, followed closely roti canai aka roti prata, the iconic flat bread that’s emblematic of Malaysia and Singapore.

Where do you go for a big meal?
I’m not too sure what you mean by a big meal. Do you mean multi-course or an American-style big meal? If you mean a multi-course meal, I love Brae for its degustation menu. But if you mean American-big, I’m afraid I don’t go for that. It’ll make me sick!

If you’re recommending a spot for a first date?
Cutler & Co for the varied menu and the cosy atmosphere.

Where did you go for your last birthday?
You’ll die when I tell you, because my birthday fell while I was on my honeymoon. So we went to The Clove Club in London. It was so romantic – we had a table far from the crowd.

What’s your favourite ice-cream or gelato shop?
Sundae School Ice-Creamery in Fitzroy North. Always chocolate with whatever topping they offer.

Where can you find your favourite dessert or sweet treat?
I go to Monforte Viennoiserie for the apple custard chausson and to Falco for the divine cardamom buns.

Best meal you’ve had this year?
The Clove Club in London. Back in town, it’s Society.

Where’s great in Trentham?
Annie Smithers’s Du Fermier is simply the best in town and in the region.

What’s an underrated venue in Melbourne?
Trattoria Emilia. I don’t know why it’s not on the hipster cool list but I love the gnocco fritto and the tiny filled dumplings.

Bucket list restaurant
I would love to check out O.My in the Yarra Valley.