Kevin Lian, Mackay’s Kevin’s Place founder, dies at 64

The Mackay community is mourning a legendary local chef who served up authentic Singaporean cuisine with a side of charm through the decades.

Founder of Kevin’s Place, Kevin Lian, died age 64 in late September, 2022.

The proverb of food being the way to peoples’ hearts bears greater significance for a community mourning the death of its iconic chef, Kevin Lian.

Mr Lian, who founded Kevin’s Place in Mackay 20 years ago, lost his battle with lung cancer on September 26, aged 64.

The restaurant, well known for its above-and-beyond customer service, authentic Singaporean cuisine, and crimson red tablecloths, had been a treasured CBD spot for milestones and celebrations.

After entrusting Kevin’s Place to new owners in 2009, Mr Lian then co-founded Jim-Me Kitchen around the corner on Sydney St with chef and friend, Jimmy Wong, in 2017.

Former Kevin's Place partners Kelly Ah Wang, chef Ben Li and founder Kevin Lian. Photo: Louise Starkey / Daily Mercury

Mr Lian, who leaves behind wife Lyn Takayama and daughter Ayana, first became a restaurateur with the Meeting House, also on Sydney St, after moving to Mackay in 1996.

He was born in Singapore, where he worked, as well as in Malaysia, which gave him a delicious cross-cultural repertoire that would result in his restaurants down under being regularly booked out.

His wealth of experience also made him a mentor for incoming Mackay hospitality talent like the Connors family behind The Dispensary.

The Connors and thousands across the Mackay region took to Facebook to share fond memories and offer their condolences.

Kevin Lian was renowned throughout the Mackay community for his great hospitality, food, and personality. Photo: Louise Starkey / Daily Mercury

Mr Lian left an indelible impact on the community with many remarking on his infectious smile, keen sense of red wine, charm, charisma, and hospitality.

Kerry Berry posted Mr Lian had a “beaming smile of friendship” and always made dining a “next level” experience.

Nikki Hay reminisced about the “island working days”.

“From then until my last visit at the restaurant, he never changed, always smiling and throwing in a cheeky comment or two,” Ms Hay posted.

“Such a lovely man … you were one in a million Kevvy.”

Do you have a memory of Kevin Lian you’d like to share? Comment below and email [e-mail]

Originally published as Kevin Lian, Mackay’s Kevin’s Place founder, dies at 64