They are well-known for their crispy, caramelised Char Siew and roast ducks, both roasted to a distinctive brown using charcoal fire.
The owners, Betty Kong and her husband, have decided to sell their business as their children, who have successful careers of their own, are not keen to take over their 40-year business.
As age is catching up with them, they have decided to sell their business for $3.5million this year. The amount includes $2m for the recipes and the eatery's name, and $1.5m for the shop space.
The sale has attracted interest from potential buyers from Singapore as well as from Hong Kong, Taiwan and Indonesia.
It is understood that they are close to reaching a deal.
The couple are likely to spend a month training the new owner how to prepare their roasts and another two months to monitor the standard of the food.
The business began in Chinatown in the 1950s before it moved to a coffeeshop in the 1970s. As the business grew, it operated from a whole shop unit in Upper Paya Lebar.
Although the couple have had two 'disciple' cooks, they didn't pursue a business in roasting.
Anyway, Betty and her husband are believed to have made a good pile of money.
You can see the spiffy woman driving a limo to her shop each day. Then she would start her back-breaking job of chopping up every order of roast from late morning till evening.
Kay Lee Roast Meat Joint
My colleague been raving about Kay Lee to me since she tasted it the first time. I finally get to try it too! Thanks to one of my colleague who drove us there for lunch. This shop has been around since the 70s and they are very famous for their authentic Zhujiang style charred roasted char siew and duck. Yes it's very nice but is quite pricey! The six of us shared half a duck, some roast pork and char siew with 2 stewed soup and total bill came up to 50 plus! However I think I will be back again as I really like the taste of everything!
Very old school and authentic!
Love the roast duck, crispy skin and not oily. Char siew is the best. Very nicely roasted. The stewed soup was a delight too. Full of flavor! Usually very crowded during lunch hour so be prepared to wait for table.
Kay Lee Roast Meat Joint
125 Upper Paya Lebar Road
Singapore 534838
Tel: 6743 8778
Opening hour:
10am to 7pm
(closed on Tue)
If you like traditional local white bread, don't forget to drop by the confectionery next to Kay Lee to buy some back. The bread was very fresh and the spread was yummy! I love to spread the bread with kaya and peanut butter!
