Indian zi char chef leaving S'pore after 24 years, restarting in Ipoh

XH Delicious Seafood in Chinatown will permanently close on Nov. 25, 2026.

The closure comes just seven months after it started operating at Chinatown Coffee Shop at Temple Street on Apr. 20.

The zi char stall will relocate its operations to Ipoh, Malaysia.

In a Facebook post on Nov. 5, the chef Devid Retanasamy, 43, said the move is an “important turning point”.

Experience

According to the post, Retanasamy worked in Singapore for about 24 years, from 2002 to 2026.

“Throughout these years, he has gained valuable experience, faced many challenges, learned countless lessons, and grown both personally and professionally,” the post’s caption read.

The chef “feels that he has gained the experience and knowledge needed” and intends to return to his hometown in Ipoh to start his own business.

Family

The move was also partly attributed to Retanasamy “always” prioritising his career and responsibilities.

“In his pursuit of success and a better future, he gradually realised that he had missed out on many precious moments with his family,” the post said.

“At this stage of his life, he wishes to slow down a little, spend more quality time with his loved ones, and cherish the moments that truly matter,” it added.

The business expressed its gratitude towards the support shown.

“Although we are saying goodbye to Singapore, this is not the end of our journey. It is simply the beginning of a new chapter in Ipoh,” the caption read.

Losses

According to The Straits Times, the business has lost more than S$10,000 since it opened.

Its daily takings of S$500 reportedly fell below the S$800 amount needed to cover operating costs.

Retanasamy also said he faced unsuccessful business partnerships and disagreements with various employers previously.

In February 2026, the Mandarin-speaking chef became the culinary director of Xiao Hei Tze Char, a franchise which adopted his nickname, ST reported.

The name "Xiao Hei" is a reference to his dark complexion, according to ST, and he treats it as a term of endearment.

The franchise opened its first outlet in Hougang in February and the second outlet in Bedok in March.

Retanasamy left in early April due to disagreements with management over his responsibilities and how much he earned.

He said he had to cook, recruit, find suppliers, plan menus and make sauces for all the outlets.

He joined the Temple Street operation after that stint.

Leave

While he is tempted to stay in Singapore, the chef has already decided to leave to be with his wife and three children aged 10, 13, and 17.

He reportedly estimated that he will need about RM20,000 (S$6,259) to set up his new business in Ipoh and intends to begin operations with just two employees.

Retansamy is also apparently prepared to sell his jewellery, which he estimates is worth RM70,000 (S$21,906) to RM80,000 (S$25,036), to finance his new business.

He will need to service his mortgage for this Ipoh shophouse and home in Johor Bahru, ST reported.

His new stall will be located at No. 16A, Jalan Lapangan Suria Medam, Lapangan Suria, 31350 Ipoh, Perak.