Born in Canada, raised in Chicago and now based in Dubai, chef Kelvin Cheung has built a culinary career shaped by movement, multiculturalism and a lifelong immersion in the kitchen. A third-generation chef, Cheung was exposed to cooking early on, an upbringing that prepared him for a profession defined by travel and work in kitchens around the world.
Cheung’s cooking reflects the layered influences of his background. Drawing from his Chinese heritage, North American upbringing and classical French training, his dishes are anchored by locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Rather than adhering to a fixed style, Cheung develops menus inspired by personal experiences and global travels, resulting in dishes that are both inventive and deeply personal. Known for his approachable demeanor and strong interpersonal skills, Cheung has earned a reputation as a dynamic presence within the international culinary community.
In 2021, the award-winning chef relocated to Dubai after partnering with Three Layer Hospitality to launch Jun’s, a modern dining concept located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. The restaurant is recognized for its playful, “borderless” approach to cooking, with Cheung emerging as one of the region’s early advocates of what is often described as Third Culture cuisine. Building on that success, the team expanded in 2023 with the opening of Little Jun’s at Time Out Market Dubai, featuring a menu created exclusively for the venue. The openings mark the first phase of a broader expansion strategy across the region.
Cheung’s career also includes notable high-profile engagements beyond the restaurant world. He has cooked for NBA players at a Make-A-Wish Foundation charity gala and prepared meals for former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. More recently, he participated in a sustainability-focused initiative at Soneva Maldives Resort, aimed at promoting regenerative practices within the hospitality industry—an effort that aligns closely with his personal values.
Outside the kitchen, Cheung describes himself as a committed family man and wellness advocate. He spends much of his free time with his son, Bodhi, training at a local CrossFit gym and working toward a regular meditation practice. Whether in his professional pursuits or personal life, Cheung approaches his work with humor, energy and an enduring passion for food.
