Martin Yan is internationally known as a master of Chinese cuisine. For years he has hosted one of the longest running cooking shows ever, Yan Can Cook, on PBS. His talent and expertise in the culinary arts has resulted in prestigious awards and notability. Martin has received two James Beard Awards, for Best Cooking Show (1994) and Best Television Food Journalism (1996). A published author of more than ten bestselling cookbooks, like: Martin Yan’s Chinatowns, Martin Yan’s Feast: The Best of Yan Can Cook, Chinese Cooking for Dummies, and Martin Yan’s Asian Favorites.

Martin began his career working along side his mother in their kitchen in Guangzhou, China. In the years that followed he worked as a chef's apprentice in Hong Kong and China learning the skills that helped to make him the “Yan Can Cook”. He later cooked in top restaurants throughout Asia and North America gaining a reputation as a master of Chinese cuisine. Martin has received a certification as a Master Chinese Chef from the Ontario Restaurant Association. He also has a Master's degree in Food Science from the University of California at Davis and an honorary Doctorate from Johnson and Wales University. Aside from his numerous accolades and honors, Martin’s winsome personality has made him a gracious spokesperson for Lee Kum Kee for many years.