In a surprising culinary escapade, celebrity chef Shahrizal Salleh, affectionately known as Chef Bob, found himself shelling out £4.25 (S$7.25) for a taste of nostalgia at an Old Chang Kee outlet in London. The renowned TV personality chronicled his experience in a TikTok video on January 20, sending shockwaves through Singaporean viewers as they grappled with the apparent exorbitance of the sardine puff's price tag.

Chef Bob's culinary journey unfolded in the heart of Covent Garden, where he adorned a comical British accent and inquired about the availability of sardine and beef rendang puffs. The menu, displayed in the backdrop, showcased a beef rendang puff priced at £4.50, while the signature chicken curry puff came in slightly cheaper at £4. Spring rolls, a familiar favorite, were on offer at two for £3. Eager to complement his snack with a cup of teh tarik, Chef Bob's attempt was met with confusion as the employee seemed unfamiliar with the term. Clarifying that he meant tea, Chef Bob learned that hot drinks were not part of the eatery's offerings.

Undeterred by the lack of traditional tea, Chef Bob proceeded to acquire a lone sardine puff for the hefty sum of £4.25. With a satisfying bite into the savory delight, he shared, "Sometimes when you're abroad, you look for our local food. And sardine curry puff (in) this kind of weather (is a) perfect combination." The viral video left netizens in a whirlwind of reactions, sparking discussions about the cost of homegrown delights in foreign lands.

As Chef Bob's TikTok video continues to circulate, it has become a focal point for discussions on the price of a familiar taste of home in foreign territories. The juxtaposition of nostalgia and sticker shock resonates with many Singaporeans, prompting reflections on the value placed on local delicacies abroad. While the £4.25 sardine puff may seem steep, Chef Bob's infectious enthusiasm for indulging in local flavors amidst the chill of London weather strikes a chord with those who seek comfort in familiar culinary delights. As netizens reel over the seemingly extravagant price, the video serves as a humorous yet thought-provoking commentary on the lengths people go to savor a slice of home in distant lands, sparking conversations about the essence of cultural connection through food.