Sorn is the first and only restaurant in Thailand to hold the highest level of three Michelin stars (Photo: Sorn)
Thai cuisine is revered across the globe for its delicious and diverse flavours. In a memorable milestone for Thailand’s gastronomic scene, Bangkok-based restaurant Sorn has been promoted to three Michelin stars for the Michelin Guide Thailand 2025 edition, making it the first and only establishment in the country to achieve such an accolade. Headed by chef and owner Supaksorn Jongsiri, Sorn focuses on the art of southern Thai fare by blending tradition and modernity for a menu boasting unique flavours.
The restaurant values authenticity and originality, sourcing its ingredients directly from farmers and fishermen in the southern part of the country. It relies on quality components and utilises ancient cooking techniques to bring an elevated experience to guests from farm to table. This was achieved by adopting almost forgotten methods such as using charcoal and clay pots that, while time-consuming, still attain refined flavours.
Sorn’s signature dish is its crispy rice salad inspired by khao yam — a colourful combination of components that has evolved with the restaurant over the years. It consists of toasted turmeric jasmine rice for a crispy texture surrounded by forest vegetables, fruits and herbs topped off with lime juice and budu, a flavour-enhancing sauce made from fermented anchovies.
In addition to Sorn’s new status as a leading culinary establishment, Thailand is home to 35 other Michelin-starred restaurants, which include seven with two stars and 28 with one star. This highlights the country’s growing reputation for exceptional fine dining and its significant presence in the prestigious Michelin Guide.
This article first appeared on Dec 9, 2024 in The Edge Malaysia.
