Pasta Bar & Bistro located in Bukit Jalil

If you are a food enthusiast in Kuala Lumpur, chances are you are familiar with Back Alley Pasta, a restaurant that once had the entire foodie community buzzing with excitement. Obtaining a reservation at Back Alley Pasta was akin to winning a lottery due to its popularity and unique pasta dishes that blended familiar flavors with unexpected twists.

Behind the initial success of Back Alley Pasta was Chef Jay, who co-founded the restaurant with his former partner. However, a few months ago, Jay quietly decided to step away from Back Alley Pasta without much public explanation. This move may have seemed daunting to many, given the restaurant’s success, but for Jay, it presented an opportunity to embark on a fresh journey and bring his vision to life in a new establishment.

This leap of faith led to the establishment of Base Pasta Bar & Bistro (Base) in Bukit Jalil, a restaurant that not only focuses on delicious food but also prioritizes strong principles in its operations.

Chef Jay’s culinary journey began at 19, where he spent almost 15 years honing his skills in the kitchens of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Mentorships under renowned chefs like Stephane Istel and Paolo Petris further shaped his culinary expertise. With a desire to apply his learnings and create something unique, Jay decided to start his own venture with Back Alley Pasta and eventually transitioned to opening Base.

Base takes a contemporary approach to pasta dishes, incorporating locally sourced ingredients and techniques from various culinary traditions to create dishes with a unique identity. The menu reflects Jay’s passion for pasta and his dedication to creativity and local produce.

Central to Base’s success is its team, whom Jay credits for their sacrifices and contributions to the restaurant’s growth. Despite the challenges of balancing the roles of chef and owner, Jay emphasizes the importance of building a strong team to navigate obstacles and maintain high standards.

Looking ahead, Jay plans to collaborate with other chefs through pop-ups and kitchen takeovers to expand Base’s presence beyond its current location. While growth is on the horizon, he remains committed to upholding the restaurant’s foundational principles and staying true to its roots.

Starting over requires courage and careful planning, as Jay acknowledges from his own experience. His journey from Back Alley Pasta to Base demonstrates that new beginnings can be just as fulfilling and meaningful as previous chapters in one’s life.

To learn more about Base Pasta Bar & Bistro and stay updated on their latest developments, visit their website. Explore other articles on Malaysian startups to discover more about the local entrepreneurial landscape.

(Image Credit: Base Pasta Bar & Bistro / William Ng)



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