Style Q&A with Desmond Chen

The Thai House restaurateur doesn’t let a jam-packed schedule hobble his commitment to style.

Somehow, in addition to working as director of five Thai House eateries, partnering in a local modelling agency, and playing in two hockey leagues, Desmond Chen still has time to produce a reality web series. When he’s not running around the restaurant (where he’s been plying the family trade since the age of 13) or his other ventures, he takes a casual day, “sporting a pair of sweatpants layered up with a blazer and Nike Flyknits.”What’s the most beautiful piece in your closet?The most treasured piece would have to be my Dolce & Gabbana tailored black suit with subtle hints of metallic thread.Name one item in your closet you couldn’t throw away.My Alexander Wang leather jacket.Favourite brand and style of jeans?DSquared2 distressed Cool Guy jeans.Favourite piece of clothing?A navy blue cotton sports coat with elastane that can be dressed up with slacks or casually with jeans, cargos, or even sweats.What’s on your nightstand?An alarm clock and a Chinese Zodiac ornament for good feng shui.Favourite shave cream and razor?I don’t grow much facial hair; I use an electric razor.Name three things that are always in your fridge.Trader Joes Organic Pineapple juice, Fiji Water and XO chilli sauceWhat is something you always bring to a party?Something to get the party started… a bottle or two of Belvedere VodkaList three things that you always pack when you travel.Aside from the standard passport, Nexus card and cellphones, I always pack my phone chargers, Laptop and weather appropriate clothing for the destination.Favourite vacation destination?I’m never officially on vacation and always working but my favourite destination for a little R&R would have to be Koh Samui.Favourite place to lunch and what do you like to eat there (outside of your restaurants)? Minami in Yaletown for their Aburi Salmon Oshi Sushi and Wagyu Beef Cha Soba.What restaurant do you recommend out-of-town guests visit?Aside from my restaurants, I always recommend Coast on Alberni Street. They have the best seafood selection and always offer top-notch service.What’s your favourite book? Good to Great by Jim CollinsI never, ever leave the house without (1-3 things)Blackberry, iPhone and Credit cardFavourite colour?Pink… for www.pinkelephantthai.comFave colour for clothing would have to be black.Favorite bottle of wine to splurge on?Opus One