INTERNATIONALLY acclaimed culinary genius chef Khun Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn, renowned for his award-winning cuisine, is set to make his debut in Penang with the opening of his first restaurant in the country.
Known as ‘Sood by Chef Ton’, the restaurant is expected to officially open at Farquhar Mansion in October this year.
A partnership agreement signing ceremony was held at the Penang Marriott Hotel in Gurney Drive on April 20, between Chef Ton, as he is popularly known, and Regal Blossom Sdn Bhd to establish the much-anticipated restaurant. Regal Blossom was represented by its director Tony Ch’ng.
The signing ceremony also was witnessed by Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai and Thai Consul-General in Penang Raschada Jiwalai.
Chef Ton achieved a significant milestone when his restaurant Le Du (Bangkok, Thailand) earned a Michelin Star in 2019. His burgeoning restaurant empire, which includes Nusara, Baan, Mayrai, and Samut, showcases the impressive diversity of Thai cuisine. In a remarkable feat in 2022, Le Du and Nusara both secured spots in the top 10 of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
According to Chef Ton, the upcoming restaurant in Penang will uphold the modern Thai approach while incorporating locally sourced ingredients from Penang.
“Currently, my team, including my business partner Ch’ng, and I will be exploring Penang, visiting markets to source suitable ingredients for our menus. This includes herbs, raw materials and other available produce that we can blend with Thai cuisine.
“My concept is to infuse Thai flavours with Penang’s local ingredients to create a unique culinary experience, especially for Penangites. Thai cuisine is not just about Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Pad Kra Pao Moo. There is more to that.
“As for now, we are still in the process of finalising our menus, which we plan to unveil during the opening ceremony. As a start, I expect that it will be more than 30 dishes,” he said during the press conference after the signing ceremony.
When asked about the food’s pricing at his upcoming new restaurant, Chef Ton assured that the prices would be reasonable and affordable while maintaining high standards of quality.
“This won’t be a fine dining restaurant; rather we want it to become a regular dining destination for both locals and visitors to Penang.
“In short, we envision this restaurant as a gathering place where you can bring your friends and family, or meet up with friends on weekends,” said Chef Ton.
Meanwhile, Ch’ng said when Sood by Chef Ton opens soon, the restaurant will incorporate many local talents to work closely with Chef Ton.
Wong also extended a warm welcome to Chef Ton on his debut in Penang through the opening of his first restaurant.
“Chef Ton is not just a renowned culinary maestro; he is a visionary artist whose creations transcend borders and cultures.
“His innovative approach to Thai cuisine has earned him international acclaim, including recognition from the prestigious Michelin Guide.
“His arrival marks not just the opening of a new restaurant, but the beginning of an extraordinary culinary journey that will captivate the palates and hearts of food enthusiasts across the globe.
“Moreover, Chef Ton’s illustrious career is a testament to his unparalleled talent, creativity, and dedication to the culinary arts. His multiple awards and international acclaim speak volumes about his mastery of the craft and his ability to push the boundaries of gastronomy,” said Wong.
Wong added that the collaboration between Chef Ton and Regal Blossom represents a fusion of talent, creativity, and passion.
He said it is a testament to Penang’s status as a culinary destination of choice, a place where culinary traditions meet innovation, and where the boundaries of gastronomy are constantly pushed.
“May Sood by Chef Ton is set to become a beacon of culinary excellence in Penang, captivating the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike,” he concluded.
Also present during the signing ceremony was Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang.
Story and pix by Riadz Akmal