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Samut Sakhon, Thailand, October 18, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Setting a new benchmark in premium sea travel, Sawanu Travel blends Thai cultural charm, sustainability, and world-class comfort and safety to redefine island-hopping experiences. By elevating local marine journeys to international standards, Sawanu Travel inspires travelers to discover the beauty of the Andaman Sea with purpose and pride.

Sawanu Travel, a leading premium cruise tour operator based in Phuket and the Andaman region, is responding to the growing global trend in ecotourism. Embracing the “Premium Eco Voyage” marine travel concept, the company blends world-class comfort and safety with a deep commitment to environmental conservation and respect for nature. This initiative seeks to set a new benchmark for marine travel—offering not only the breathtaking beauty of the ocean but also an appreciation for every wave and every unforgettable moment from beginning to end.

The rise of ecotourism — or environmentally conscious travel — is reshaping the preferences of Thai travelers who are shifting their travel behaviors — no longer focusing solely on destinations, but placing greater importance on sustainability and the overall impact of tourism. As a result, tourism operators are being driven to evolve and adapt to meet these changing expectations.

Sawanu Travel recognizes its impact on the environment and is embracing the growing trend of sustainable travel. Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to offer meaningful experiences that celebrate the beauty of the islands and the sea, while also encouraging learning about nature and the way of life of coastal communities. This is expected to help establish sustainable marine tourism standards that are mutually supportive and grow sustainably together.

Guided by its vision to become Phuket’s leading premium cruise tour operator, Sawanu Travel strives to embody the perfect balance of Thai cultural charm, world-class comfort, and unforgettable experiences. Beginning in the fourth quarter of 2025, the company aims to establish itself as an eco-friendly luxury cruise brand that champions sustainability — preserving marine ecosystems, enhancing traveler well-being, and celebrating local traditions.

Mr. Nattawut Sawatyanon, Executive of Sawanu Travel Co., Ltd., shared, “At Sawanu Travel, our goal is to deliver exceptional cruise experiences that truly meet the needs of travelers exploring Phuket and the Andaman Sea. We not only understand what our customers seek from their sea journeys, but we also deeply appreciate the beauty and value of nature — and are committed to preserving it for Thailand and the world for generations to come.”

He added, “Our thoughtfully designed itineraries to experience the beauty of various islands allow visitors to experience the charm of the Andaman Sea while catering to the new generation of travelers who value sustainability and environmental preservation. Every Sawanu Travel’s voyage is crafted to create meaningful experiences — not only for our guests but also for the planet. This commitment has earned the trust and confidence of travelers from all around the world.

“We believe that true tourism is found in experiences that delight travelers while preserving and restoring the natural beauty. That’s why Sawanu Travel’s premium speed catamaran tours are carefully designed to ensure every journey is comfortable and safe, and sustainably reduces environmental impact. Beyond the tours, we also engage in social and environmental initiatives, including marine debris cleanups and sea turtle releases, to actively contribute to the conservation of Thailand’s stunning oceans, ensuring they remain a destination that everyone wants to experience,” said Mr. Nattawut.

For its social and environmental initiatives, Sawanu Travel began by partnering with Mu Ko Similan National Park in Phang Nga Province as a host sponsor, providing a boat for the “Save Similan” activities — releasing sea turtles back into the ocean and returning hermit crabs to their natural homes. These activities were held in preparation for the upcoming tourism season on October 1, 2025, at the Surin Islands and on October 11, 2025, at the Similan Islands. These initiatives mark the beginning of Sawanu Travel’s journey toward becoming an eco-friendly luxury cruise operator that is committed to promoting sustainability. Through 2026, the company has laid out a series of social and environmental projects, including composting food waste for local farmers and setting a goal to reduce plastic bottle usage by more than 50% by 2026, by campaigning for tourists to bring their own water bottles. In addition, Sawanu Travel is partnering with leading Thai and international brands to develop a variety of wellness-focused activities for travelers.

Furthermore, there are projects to support and empower communities to present the diverse dimensions of Thainess, such as showcasing Baba Nyonya costumes, offering southern-style Cha Chak, and serving organic Thai fruits sourced from local farmers to visitors. Many more projects are planned for 2026, catering to travelers who seek not just a destination, but meaningful experiences that embody the “The Whole Journey Matters” philosophy.

Sawanu Travel is a premier travel operator specializing in Andaman Sea excursions. Founded by a passionate sea enthusiast with a vision to elevate marine tourism, the company is dedicated to delivering exceptional travel experiences. By combining premium service, modern vessels, and outstanding hospitality, Sawanu Travel ensures that every journey is more than just a vacation — it’s a truly memorable adventure.

Currently, Sawanu Travel operates more than 25 vessels, from private yachts to speed catamarans, offering over 15 popular itineraries around Phuket. The company also plans to expand its offerings to the Similan and Surin Islands later this year. Sawanu Travel offers unique experiences with international standards, safety, and premium service reminiscent of business-class travel. Guests enjoy authentic Thai hospitality, characterized by warm smiles and attentive service, creating journeys that exceed expectations. Committed to becoming a leader in marine tourism, Sawanu Travel seamlessly blends luxury, care, and sustainability in every voyage.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 18, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Bangkok’s dining scene has always thrived on contrasts—ancient flavors meet modern techniques, street-side stalls stand beside Michelin-starred restaurants. Into this vibrant culinary landscape arrives COBA Bangkok, a new destination where French flavors are reimagined with warmth, precision, and creativity. At its helm is Chef Olivier Limousin, a Michelin-starred chef whose reputation for refinement and innovation precedes him

A Culinary Vision Rooted in Seasonality

At COBA, the food is the story. Each dish is designed to be more than a meal—it’s an intentional expression of craft, passion, and place. The French classic philosophy embraces balance: the freshness of the ingredients coast paired with the elegance of French culinary artistry.

The menu reflects a seasonal, ingredient-driven approach, giving produce, seafood, and meats their rightful spotlight. Guests may opt for a curated à la carte menu or embark on a tasting journey where each plate builds upon the last, weaving together a narrative of flavor and texture. From delicate starters that awaken the palate to bold mains and refined desserts, Limousin’s menus are marked by creativity, precision, and an intuitive sense of harmony.

Chef Olivier Limousin: Michelin-Starred Leadership

Few chefs embody French culinary tradition and global sensibility quite like Olivier Limousin. With multiple Michelin stars to his name, Limousin has honed his expertise across some of the world’s most celebrated kitchens. His style is marked by an ability to elevate classical techniques while infusing them with contemporary finesse.

At COBA, Limousin brings not only his technical mastery but also his personality—approachable, warm, and attuned to his diners. Rather than focusing solely on formality, his leadership ensures that fine dining feels personal, where the chef’s vision is experienced not from a distance, but in a shared moment across the table.

Dining in a Rainforest-Inspired Escape

The design of COBA transports guests before a single dish arrives. Rainforest-inspired interiors create a lush, intimate atmosphere, enveloping diners in greenery, texture, and warmth. The open kitchen adds another layer to the experience—guests can watch as Limousin’s team works with quiet precision, transforming fresh ingredients into culinary art.

A central bar acts as the heartbeat of the room, radiating energy and encouraging connection. Here, guests can begin their evening with a signature cocktail or fine wine, deepening the sense of conviviality that defines COBA.

The space blends natural inspiration with refined details, echoing the culinary philosophy itself: grounded in nature, elevated through artistry.

Casual Fine Dining, Redefined

While COBA embraces the finesse of Michelin-level cooking, it is not about pretense. Instead, it delivers casual fine dining—a dining style that feels elevated yet approachable. Families, couples, and friends alike will find themselves at ease, whether celebrating a milestone or indulging in an impromptu dinner.

Every aspect of the restaurant reinforces this vision: from the warmth of the service to the personal touches in plating and presentation. Each course arrives as part of a carefully choreographed experience, but never one that feels rigid. Instead, guests are invited to relax, connect, and savor.

The Heart of Bangkok, the Soul of the France

COBA is more than a restaurant—it’s a dialogue between cultures and culinary traditions. Nestled in Bangkok, a city celebrated for its dynamic food scene, it introduces diners to the flavors of France while honoring modern dining sensibilities.

It’s a destination where grandparents, parents, and young professionals alike can gather around the table and discover something new together: the comfort of seasonal ingredients, the thrill of artistic presentation, and the satisfaction of shared moments.

Why COBA Matters

Bangkok has no shortage of exceptional dining venues, but COBA distinguishes itself through its philosophy. It is neither bound by tradition nor chasing novelty for novelty’s sake. Instead, it occupies a rare space: a restaurant where refinement and authenticity coexist, where Michelin-starred precision is infused with genuine warmth.

For Chef Olivier Limousin, this is not just about cooking—it’s about connection. He invites his guests to step into an experience that is at once intimate and expansive, deeply rooted in culinary excellence yet alive with personal touches.

Timeless

In a city that thrives on reinvention, COBA Bangkok offers something timeless: a dining experience that lingers not just on the palate, but in memory. Under Chef Olivier Limousin’s guidance, every dish is a testament to craft, every detail is intentional, and every guest is part of the story.

French-Mediterranean flavors have found a new home in Bangkok, and at COBA, the invitation is clear: come for the food, stay for the experience, and savor the artistry of a chef who knows that the best meals are those that connect us.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 18, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The CHG Global Summits 2025 will be held from 21–24 October 2025 at the Arnoma Grand Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand, bringing together delegates from more than 100 countries.

This four-day international platform is expected to welcome over 2,000 global leaders, investors, innovators and policymakers under the theme “Connecting Ideas · Empowering Nations.”

Why You Should Join the CHG Global Summits 2025

Join one of Asia’s most influential gatherings — where collaboration drives innovation and global partnerships create lasting opportunities.

CHG Global Summits 2025 unites seven key sectors: Wellness, Tourism, Education, Start-ups, Economy, Energy, and Investment.

Experience a world-class programme designed to inspire, connect and empower:

Two Days of Global Seminars
Engage with leading keynote speakers and experts from around the world sharing insights on sustainability, innovation and future global development.

Two Days of Global Exhibition
Explore groundbreaking products, technologies and innovations from major brands, start-ups and organisations.

Two Days of Masterclasses
Deepen your knowledge through hands-on learning with international mentors and industry professionals — designed to accelerate skills and global collaboration.

Programme Highlights

Day 1 – Tuesday, 21 October 2025

• Health & Wellness Global Summit
• Tourism Global Summit
• Education Innovation Forum
• Global Start-up Summit

Day 2 – Wednesday, 22 October 2025

• Global Economy Forum
• Sustainable Energy Forum
• Global Investment Forum
• CHG Global Start-up Pitching Competition

Day 3 – Thursday, 23 October 2025

• Global Masterclass Sessions
• Entrepreneurship & Leadership Learning Series

Day 4 – Friday, 24 October 2025

• Global Masterclass Continuation
• Certificate Presentation & Closing Ceremony

Seats Are Limited — Register Now!
Join the movement shaping the future of innovation, sustainability and collaboration on the global stage.

Website: www.chgglobalsummits.com
Register Here: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeSKhWUbf-FjiWw0KvF6cvZX1xdLlY_OJVOnxwVxMB01EDR7w/viewform?usp=header

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Phuket, Thailand, October 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / In Phuket’s vibrant beach club scene, RAVA Beach Club by Banyan Tree Phuket stands apart as Thailand’s largest beachfront destination—not by accident, but by design. This isn’t just another party destination with sea views, instead Rava creates something far more valuable that stays with guests long after their visit.

All Lifestyles, One Destination

As Thailand’s longest beach club, spanning 180 metres of Bang Tao Beach with 3,500 square metres of thoughtfully designed space, Rava fosters connections—to nature through wellbeing activities and watersports, to family through delectable dining and dedicated kids’ zone, and to yourself through moments of pure relaxation.

The three infinity pools serve as stages that transform throughout the day. Midday sees cocktails and conversation flow freely. Evening delivers spectacular sunsets reflected on wthe ater. Night unleashes energy that pulses with the rhythm of the waves.

Three Zones, Three Distinct Experiences

From vibrant socialising to intimate dining and peaceful retreat, three specialised zones ensure every visitor discovers their ideal experience.

• Young & Fun operates as RAVA’s beating heart. This goes beyond typical beach club entertainment with 180 outdoor seats, three infinity pools, and cabanas that create distinct experiences throughout the day. Essential experiences include lounging in the pools that transition from daytime chill to evening party mode, dancing to live DJ performances that soundtrack each day, and watching the mesmerising fire shows that cap off memorable nights.
• Master Grill transforms dining into theatre. Guests watch chefs work live-fire grills while tasting dry-aged cuts and seasonal seafood that changes with Thailand’s natural rhythms. Seasonal specialities include tiger prawns during the rainy season, sea crab in summer, and fresh grouper towards year-end. The monthly Pura Vida Sunday Brunch featuring Free-Flow Veuve Clicquot champagne at THB 6,900 per person represents exceptional value for an extraordinary experience. Complementing the dining experience, an innovative wine dispenser opens up fine selections from around the world by the glass, allowing extensive exploration without full bottle commitment.
• Prestige offers exclusivity designed for relaxation. Reserved for Banyan Group Residence owners, this zone features private infinity pools, air-conditioned dining rooms, and curated soundscapes. Signature moments include unwinding poolside with uninterrupted ocean views, enjoying intimate dinners in climate-controlled comfort, and experiencing the carefully crafted sound environment that enhances every peaceful moment.

Private Gatherings Made Perfect

Beyond its daily operations, RAVA excels at transforming special occasions into unforgettable experiences. The five VIP rooms, each accommodating 10 guests with unobstructed ocean views, can be interconnected to host larger gatherings, showcasing the venue’s adaptable approach to private celebrations. Whether for intimate gatherings or larger corporate functions, RAVA’s professional events team crafts bespoke experiences from sunset cocktail receptions to private beachfront dinners, ensuring each significant moment becomes distinctly memorable. If you have a birthday or anniversary coming up, or planning a beach-front this luxurious space is perfect for you.

A Lasting Impression

What distinguishes RAVA is its understanding that memorable experiences stem not from facilities alone, but from the emotions those spaces inspire. Every element, from the carefully curated music to the seasonal menu changes, contributes to ensuring each guest’s visit becomes a cherished memory.

RAVA Beach Club is now open daily from 10 am through midnight. For reservations and enquiries, please call 076-372-456.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 17, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The TOP25 Restaurants Awards continue to be a a significant milestone on Thailand’s culinary calendar. This year marks an exciting new chapter, as the awards will, for the first time, unite the country’s two major culinary hubs, “Bangkok” and “Phuket & Southern Thailand“, into a single, prestigious event. This expanded format will showcase the best restaurants across both regions, reflecting the diversity and excellence of Thailand’s vibrant gastronomy.

The awards ceremony will take place on December 8, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, where guests will enjoy an evening filled with gastronomic delights and networking opportunities.

“We’re thrilled to announce the winners of the TOP25 Restaurants Thailand Awards on December 8, 2025, a celebration set to mark another remarkable year in culinary excellence.” said Bernard Metzger, Founder of the TOP25 Restaurants Guide and Award series. “For the first time ever, we’re bringing together Thailand’s two culinary powerhouses, Bangkok and Phuket & Southern Thailand, into one extraordinary event. It’s a new step that showcases the richness, diversity, and world-class quality of Thailand’s dining scene.”

The awards ceremony will provide an opportunity for food enthusiasts, industry professionals, and local influencers to come together and discover which restaurants have earned a place among the top 25. Attendees will also have the chance to meet the talented chefs behind these culinary triumphs, gaining insights into their creative processes and the inspirations behind their dishes. Following the ceremony, a comprehensive list of award winners, along with all nominated and recognized restaurants, will be made available online for the public to discover and explore.

For more information about the awards, and to discover all restaurants from the TOP25 Restaurants selection in Thailand, please visit: www.top25restaurants.com/thailand/

About TOP25 Restaurants by Travelindex
TOP25 Restaurants is the World’s First AI-Powered restaurant guide. It is the only independent, global rating system based on artificial intelligence enhanced by human expertise and discernment. This dynamic synergy not only ensures unparalleled accuracy but enriches the curation process with a depth of understanding and nuance unparalleled elsewhere. The annual TOP25 Restaurants Awards celebrates the most outstanding restaurants and showcases the ultimate collection of dining venues in each destination. TOP25 Restaurants is owned by Travelindex Group, a content-driven ecosystem for the travel and tourism sectors. The media group operates an open and free digital platform, connecting millions of travelers worldwide and providing inspiration and advice for discerning travelers and tourists. In addition to Bangkok, Travelindex Group also publishes TOP25 Restaurant Guides in the following destinations: Phuket, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macao, Shanghai, Delhi and Dubai. www.top25restaurants.com

About Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit
Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit is located on Sukhumvit Road with direct access to BTS Skytrain Nana Station, and offers seamless connections to major attractions, shopping, dining, and nightlife. The hotel’s modern Thai-inspired interiors blend local charm with contemporary comfort, designed to make every guest feel right at home. Facilities include spacious guest rooms, an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, the Regency Club Lounge, flexible event spaces, and distinctive dining, providing a dynamic stay in the heart of Bangkok. Visit Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit here…

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Join us for an exclusive evening of 5 wines and 5 courses paired with the culinary creations of Chef Alessandro, guided by 4 of Italy’s most legendary wine makers.

Featuring wineries:

• Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari Tenute – The heart of Tuscan tradition, crafting elegant and timeless Chianti Classico and Supertuscan wines.
• Masciarelli (Abruzzo) – Family-owned icon producing soulful Montepulciano and Trebbiano wines that embody the spirit of Abruzzo.
• Nals Margreid (Alto Adige) – Alpine finesse and precision; renowned for expressive whites like Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon.
• Valdicava (Montalcino) – One of the most celebrated Brunello di Montalcino producers, representing power, purity, and terroir-driven depth.

Date: 28 October 2025
Venue: Acqua Restaurant Bangkok
5 Courses + 5 Wines | 4,800 THB ++

To reserve: +66 93-612-7000

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Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, October 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / As wine consumption in Europe declines, Asia is picking up the baton. In particular, Chinese consumers are importing a growing volume of wines from around the world, but little is known about how country of origin influences their decisions. This is the research gap recently addressed by Ms Yichen Zhou and Professor Lisa Gao of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Their large-scale questionnaire study reveals how country-of-origin information interacts with Chinese consumers’ perception of brand image and wine quality to influence purchase intention, providing invaluable insights for marketers.

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia, October 16, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor are among just 10 hotels in Cambodia to be recognised with MICHELIN Keys in the MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural edition in the Southeast Asian country.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal is “Phnom Penh’s top hotel by far,” the editors write, in addition to being “the best located, just steps away from the Royal Palace.”

The editors praise Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, saying, “This is an authentic French Colonial hotel, palatial, filled with ‘30s Art Deco furnishings, claw-footed bathtubs, and an antique (though refurbished) cage elevator. Beneath this exterior, though, are all the conveniences needed for survival in the competitive Asian luxury hotel market.”

The 2025 MICHELIN Keys were unveiled globally on Oct. 8. MICHELIN Keys highlight the Guide’s “most exceptional hotels,” similar to how MICHELIN Stars spotlight the best restaurants.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, in a separate major honour, was voted the No. 2 hotel in Southeast Asia in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, which were announced earlier this month. These are among the most prestigious hospitality awards in the world. Readers also voted Cambodia No. 5 among the “friendliest countries in the world.”

“To be recognised in the same month by both MICHELIN and Condé Nast Traveler – two of the planet’s top authorities in international travel – shows that Raffles Hotel Le Royal is truly a world-class destination, celebrated for exceptional hospitality, timeless elegance and an extraordinary guest experience,” Raffles Hotel Le Royal General Manager Dagmar Lyons said.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, which originally opened in 1929, today features 175 rooms and suites that underwent a full refurbishment as part of a meticulous one-year restoration project in 2019. The hotel’s elegant past has been reinterpreted in a bold, contemporary style that is inspired by French colonial, Khmer and Art Deco influences.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor opened its doors three years later, in 1932, as a rest stop for archeologists and adventurers exploring the ancient kingdom of Angkor Wat. The hotel features an authentic expression of 1930s French Art Deco style with beautifully refined rooms, suites and villas blending old-world charm with Cambodian influences and contemporary detail.

Joseph Colina, the General Manager at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, said: “The honour from MICHELIN is a testament to our commitment to preserving the rich legacy of our hotel, while offering guests an unforgettable experience steeped in history and elegance.”

The two Raffles Cambodia hotels came together earlier this year to unveil an exclusive new 7-day stay package, “A Tale of Two Cities,” billed as “a journey like no other, where grand history, enchanted glamour and extraordinary adventure entwine.” The experience takes in the wonders of both destinations, including the iconic luxury hotels.

ABOUT RAFFLES
Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 15, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit invites you to celebrate the Vegetarian Festival with a specially curated menu at Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant, proudly recognized by the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years (2022–2025). From 21 – 29 October 2025, discover a variety of dishes crafted by Executive Chinese Chef Lam Kok Weng, highlighting the artistry and heritage of Chinese vegetarian cuisine.

Indulge in a refined selection of à la carte creations featuring fresh ingredients, delicate flavours, and culinary artistry. Highlights include the Deep-Fried Vegetarian Taro Fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce (THB 320++), Eight-Treasure Vegetarian Soup in Whole Pumpkin (THB 250++), Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables and Mushrooms with Walnuts (THB 320++), and Braised Dragon Rolls (THB 320++) each thoughtfully prepared to reflect tradition and creativity.

Celebrate this meaningful festival with authentic Cantonese flavours in an elegant setting, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Date: 21 – 29 October 2025

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Level 2, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit
Lunch: 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Dinner: 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm

For more information or to make reservations, please contact 02 090 7888

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Bangkok, Thailand, October 13, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Anne-Sophie Pic, the world’s most Michelin-starred French female chef, ushers in a new chapter of culinary excellence in Bangkok.

Anne-Sophie Pic is renowned for her bold vision and pioneering approach to gastronomy. Guided by her philosophy of Suffusion, a style that reveals itself through delicate aromatic layers and profound connections between ingredients, she has brought a fresh perspective to French cuisine for a new era.

At Restaurant Pic in Valence, honoured with three Michelin stars every year since 2007, she continues the legacy of her father Jacques Pic and her grandfather André Pic, both three-Michelin-starred chefs. The restaurant was also named Best Restaurant in the World by Tripadvisor in its 2024 Best of the Best ranking, a distinction that reflects her enduring influence on the culinary world.

HONOURING THE PAST, EMBRACING THE FUTURE

First opened in 1958 atop the Tower Wing, then one of Thailand’s tallest buildings, Le Normandie was the country’s first French fine dining restaurant and has long been cherished by discerning guests and world travellers. It is also the first French restaurant in Thailand to be recognised by Les Grandes Tables du Monde.

The arrival of Anne-Sophie Pic marks the continuation of a story rooted in personal ties and lasting impressions. Her connection with Thailand has deepened over decades. In 1998 she cooked at Le Normandie for the first time during a gastronomic week that left an indelible mark. There she discovered not only a restaurant steeped in history but also one that her father Jacques Pic had admired forty years earlier.

Today that connection comes full circle as she returns to write a new chapter in its legacy. “I firmly believe that cuisine is a universal language, a space where cultures meet. Opening a new chapter at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, an iconic institution that embodies elegance and refinement, is an adventure that truly excites me. I look forward to creating an experience where French gastronomy engages in a dialogue with the vibrant energy of Thai culture.” — Anne-Sophie Pic

ANNE-SOPHIE PIC’S CREATIVE CUISINE: SUFFUSION

Anne-Sophie Pic’s cuisine is defined by quiet elegance and a devotion to awakening the senses. Nature is her constant muse, where every ingredient — particularly the vegetal world — becomes a source of inspiration, guiding her towards creations both delicate and bold.

At the heart of her artistry lies the philosophy of Suffusion. It is not a technique but a way of thinking, an aromatic framework where flavours blossom through marination, infusion, maceration and smoking. Layer by layer, aromas unfold and intertwine in subtle harmony, revealing compositions that are at once surprising and deeply evocative.

For Bangkok, Anne-Sophie Pic has chosen to showcase some of her emblematic creations, like Hokkaido Sea Urchin, Chocolate Alveole or the celebrated Les Berlingots ©ASP, imagined here with a delicate filling of Camembert, saffron, chamomile and slightly sour tomatoes. The Brittany Blue Lobster with red fruits dashi, proposed with seaweed, reflects her enduring admiration for Asia. Another highlight, Wild Sea Bass and Caviar, pays tribute to the legendary dish created by Jacques Pic, elevating the hot and cold contrast of sea bass and caviar with the refinement of champagne sauce.

From the land, Anne-Sophie Pic presents a Charolais Beef Fillet infused with Thai black garlic and smoked vanilla, a dish of profound depth and subtle spice.

To close, a refined sweet note: White Lotus Millefeuille. This reinterpretation of her classic millefeuille blossoms like a lotus flower. Its rose petal tuiles, vanilla and jasmine flower cloud-like cream are delicately accented with Thai ginger flower. A dessert that beautifully bridges French artistry and Thai symbolism.

Upon arrival at the restaurant, guests are invited to discover these creations at the bar, where they may savour cocktails while enjoying a breathtaking view of the Chao Phraya River.

The Creative Beverage Menu, available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic selections, offers drinks meticulously crafted to capture the essence of each ingredient, harmonising colours and aromas in perfect balance. Among the signatures is Brume, a blend of Calvados and osmanthus with a subtle coffee note, and the Genmaicha Collins, which layers roasted green tea with lemongrass, kaffir lime and matcha for a vegetal, lightly spicy character.

Pairings extend to the menu itself: roasted green tea with kombu cordial and sakura leaves accompanies Hokkaido Sea Urchin, while oolong and chamomile are matched with Les Berlingots ©ASP.

A REIMAGINED SPACE: DIALOGUE OF HERITAGE AND MODERNITY

Anne-Sophie Pic at Le Normandie has been entrusted to Humbert & Poyet, the celebrated architectural duo whose work has redefined spaces across the world. For the first time they turn their gaze to fine dining, a commission that unites one of France’s most visionary chefs with one of Asia’s most legendary hotels. Their task was as ambitious as it was delicate: to preserve the soul of a place steeped in history while imagining a future where heritage and modernity converse with ease. The result is a setting that feels both familiar and surprising, intimate yet expansive, respectful of its past and alive with new possibilities.

French elegance and Thai cultural richness meet in an architectural language that is refined, discreet and deeply contemporary. The design celebrates noble materials and local artistry, from fabrics by Jim Thompson that echo centuries of Thai weaving to sculptural furnishings framed by lacquered wood arches. A palette of soft beige and golden tones creates a warm glow, while peony embroideries, a tribute to Chef Pic’s favourite flower, mirror a sculpted plaster bas-relief, their details unfolding slowly like the layers of a story.

Textures, patterns and materials are orchestrated with precision, giving the restaurant a quiet energy that reveals itself gradually rather than at first glance.

By day, the bar opens onto sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River, alive with brightness and movement. By night, the same space transforms into a cocoon of shadows and reflections, an atmosphere that invites guests to linger. Anchoring it all is a striking sculpture by Maxime Lhermet, a work that speaks to Anne-Sophie Pic’s creative spirit, the identity of Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, and the richness of Thai culture.

Lighting, designed as a play between organic and mineral forms, extends this dialogue into every corner, ensuring the journey is as much felt as it is seen.

“In Bangkok I am surrounded by a team whose journey has been deeply intertwined with my own. Tamaki Kobayashi, who has stood by my side for nearly 14 years, now leads the kitchen at Anne-Sophie Pic at Le Normandie with a brilliance I have long trusted. Alongside her, Edwin Cochet, Head Sommelier, brings a thoughtful vision of wine that enriches the dialogue of every dish. I am also delighted to welcome Yuko Kuwayama, Pastry Chef, whose artistry carries both delicacy and precision.” — Anne-Sophie Pic

A BRIGADE OF EXCELLENCE

TAMAKI KOBAYASHI CHEF DE CUISINE

Tamaki Kobayashi’s culinary journey began in Japan at the Tsuji Culinary Institute, before she travelled to France to deepen her training. It was there that she joined Maison Pic in Valence and discovered her affinity for Anne-Sophie Pic’s philosophy of balance and aromatic layering. Her path then led her to Joël Robuchon in Tokyo and later to Lausanne, where she contributed to the opening of Pic au Beau Rivage Palace in 2009.

In 2020 she returned to Valence, taking her place once more at the heart of the three-Michelin-starred Maison Pic. Known for her precision, quiet strength and dedication to the craft of French cuisine, she rose steadily within the team. Today, as Chef at Anne-Sophie Pic at Le Normandie, she brings this depth of experience to Bangkok, where she executes Anne-Sophie Pic’s cuisine, shaping a dining experience defined by refinement, artistry and rhythm.

Opening Hours
Wednesday to Sunday
Lunch 12 to 3:30 PM
Dinner 6:30 to 11:30 PM

Menu Selections
À La Carte
Lunch Menu – 3 Courses
Voyage Menu – 7 Courses

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