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

XH Delicious Seafood, a zi char stall located in Chinatown Coffee Shop at Temple Street, will cease operations permanently on November 25, 2026. The decision comes after the stall had only been open for seven months since it began operations on April 20. Chef Devid Retanasamy, 43, announced the closure in a Facebook post on November 5, stating that it marked an important turning point in his career.

Retanasamy, who worked in Singapore for 24 years, from 2002 to 2026, expressed that he has gained valuable experience, faced numerous challenges, and learned countless lessons during his tenure at XH Delicious Seafood. However, he also cited the need to prioritize his family as a reason for his departure. He mentioned that he has missed out on many precious moments with his loved ones and wishes to spend more quality time with them.

The business expressed its gratitude to the supporters, acknowledging that their goodbye in Singapore marks the beginning of a new chapter in Ipoh, Malaysia. Retanasamy, who has faced unsuccessful business partnerships and disagreements with various employers in the past, will restart his culinary journey in his hometown of Ipoh.

He plans to open a new business with just two employees and will need around RM20,000 (S$6,259) to set up his new venture. To finance his new business, Retanasamy is willing to sell his jewellery, which is estimated to be worth RM70,000 (S$21,906) to RM80,000 (S$25,036). He will also need to continue servicing his mortgage for the shophouse and home he owns in Johor Bahru.