On business advice from his father, Mr Ang Hon Nam, 72

'My father gives me a free hand when it comes to running the business but he will also offer his candid advice. He says I am too theoretical and ideological in my business approach sometimes, so I try to change that'

On his early days running Jumbo Seafood Restaurant

'I was the general manager but it was just a big name. I did everything and I was always the first one to arrive at the restaurant and the last one to leave'

On his wife, whom he met in 1979 when they were both studying at the then Hwa Chong Junior College

'I am able to concentrate on the business because my wife juggles her duties as assistant general manager and mother very well, and takes good care of our family'

On good customer service

'I cannot stand superficial customer service, especially when waiters ask diners how their meal is for the sake of asking, without actually caring about the comments. I tell my staff to always act on feedback'

'I enjoy good food but I will not spend a long time queuing for it, so although I love the wonton mee from Kok Kee at Lavender Food Square, which is very popular, I do not eat it often'

On his love for food

lijie@sph.com.sg