Pack your appetite and prepare your palate—because something extraordinary is cooking in the Kingdom. On 24 July 2025, the stars of Thailand’s gastronomic galaxy are aligning for a singular event that promises to be as unforgettable as a first sip of nam pla at sunrise.
The ‘City & Island’ 8-hands dinner, hosted by Tambu, Phuket’s sumptuous Mughal-inspired rooftop hideaway, will bring together four of Thailand’s most celebrated chefs—each honoured in the TOP25 Restaurants guide—for a night of culinary alchemy.
TOP25 Restaurants, touted as the world’s first AI-powered dining guide (though we like to think taste buds and sheer brilliance power it), is presenting this gourmet gathering in collaboration with Tambu. It’s not just dinner. It’s a love letter to Thai cuisine—with a dash of modernity, a sprinkle of fire, and a lot of heart.
Two maestros from Bangkok’s bustling culinary scene will descend upon the shores of Phuket. First, Chef Aom Sujira Pongmorn of Khaan is a champion of progressive Thai fine dining that’s as elegant as it is fiercely rooted in tradition. Joining her is Chef Haikal Johari of the Michelin-starred Avant, whose mastery of modern Southeast Asian flavours has turned more than a few heads and ignited plenty of palates.
Not to be outdone, the island is proudly putting forth its local legends. Leading the Phuket brigade is Chef Saurabh Sachdeva, Tambu’s culinary king and Iron Chef Thailand laureate. Known for his charcoal-grilled reimaginings of North Indian cuisine, Chef Saurabh brings smoke, spice and style in equal measure. Adding to the island flair is Chef Tammasak Chootong—affectionately known as Chef Noi—from Suay, who continues to redefine modern Thai cuisine while never losing sight of its humble origins.
“We’re proud to unite an exceptional lineup of chefs and restaurants,” said Bernard Metzger, Founder of TOP25 Restaurants. “Each brings their unique talent and vision to craft a truly memorable experience. Guests will savour not only the exceptional cuisine but also the warm ambiance and world-class hospitality that make Phuket one of Asia’s most exciting dining destinations.”
Indeed, with only a few seats available, this dinner is less of a reservation and more of a golden ticket. The evening will unfold under the ornate canopy of Tambu’s rooftop tented palace, where spiced breezes from the Andaman Sea meet the bold aromas of a sizzling tandoor and delicate Thai herbs.
What’s on the menu? That’s being held close to the chest—likely to change with the tides and market—but what’s guaranteed is a symphony of flavours, a parade of textures, and a homage to Bangkok’s urban flair and Phuket’s coastal soul.
The event is part of TOP25 Restaurants’ ongoing mission to celebrate Thailand’s culinary excellence, rank and review it, and bring people together through shared meals and memorable moments. And if there’s one thing we can all agree on, the best meals are those served with stories, passion, and perhaps a little laughter between bites.
Tambu, already a jewel in Phuket’s dining crown, has a habit of hosting the bold and the brave—and this July, it might just steal the culinary spotlight. This is not your average dinner out. It’s a celebration of Thailand’s culinary evolution, from Bangkok’s cutting-edge fine dining to the soul-warming street flavours of Phuket—refined, elevated, and plated to perfection.
For those lucky enough to snag a seat, be prepared to taste the future of Thai cuisine—with four visionary chefs guiding every course.
Bookings:
📧 Email: [email protected]. Seats are limited, and judging by the brewing buzz, they won’t last long.
By Kanda Limw
