ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
A Culinary Duet At Dusit Thani Manila: 'Manila Calls, Bangkok Answers' Delivers A Memorable Feast
Photo credit: Dusit Thani Manila
MANILA, Philippines — An extraordinary two-night culinary event, "Manila Calls, Bangkok Answers," recently took the city by storm, leaving guests with a taste of pure artistry and innovation. Hosted by Dusit Thani Manila, the collaboration, which took place on September 19 and 20, was a rare and spectacular showcase of talent, bringing together two of the region's most celebrated chefs for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The event featured a dynamic partnership between Pichaya “Chef Pam” Soontornyanakij, the 2025 World's Best Female Chef and mastermind behind Bangkok's acclaimed one-Michelin-star Restaurant POTONG, and Watcharaphon “Chef Ja” Yongbanthom, the celebrated Chef de Cuisine of Dusit Thani Manila's award-winning restaurant, Benjarong Manila.
Chef Pam, a trailblazer in modern Thai-Chinese cuisine, arrived with an impressive list of accolades, including Asia's Best Female Chef 2024 and the prestigious "Opening of the Year" award from the Michelin Guide. As the first Asian and Thai female chef to be named The World's Best Female Chef, her presence in Manila was a monumental occasion. Her culinary philosophy, deeply rooted in cultural storytelling, captivated diners as she expertly wove heritage and innovation into every dish.
Meanwhile, Chef Ja, a luminary in her own right, brought the distinguished reputation of Benjarong Manila to the collaboration. Under her leadership, the restaurant has consistently been recognized as a top dining destination, earning a spot on Tatler Philippines' Best Restaurants 2025, the THAI SELECT Seal of Approval, and multiple TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards.
Together, these two visionary chefs curated a journey through Thai flavors that was both familiar and groundbreaking. The collaboration was a testament to their shared commitment to culinary excellence, where artistry transcended the plate and every dish told a story. The event was not just a meal; it was a testament to the power of culinary partnership and a celebration of the enduring connection between Manila and Bangkok through the universal language of food.
Dusit Thani Manila extended its heartfelt gratitude to the guests, media, and partners who made "Manila Calls, Bangkok Answers" a resounding success, solidifying its place as a truly extraordinary and memorable occasion on the city's gastronomic calendar.
The event featured a dynamic partnership between Pichaya “Chef Pam” Soontornyanakij, the 2025 World's Best Female Chef and mastermind behind Bangkok's acclaimed one-Michelin-star Restaurant POTONG, and Watcharaphon “Chef Ja” Yongbanthom, the celebrated Chef de Cuisine of Dusit Thani Manila's award-winning restaurant, Benjarong Manila.
Chef Pam, a trailblazer in modern Thai-Chinese cuisine, arrived with an impressive list of accolades, including Asia's Best Female Chef 2024 and the prestigious "Opening of the Year" award from the Michelin Guide. As the first Asian and Thai female chef to be named The World's Best Female Chef, her presence in Manila was a monumental occasion. Her culinary philosophy, deeply rooted in cultural storytelling, captivated diners as she expertly wove heritage and innovation into every dish.
Meanwhile, Chef Ja, a luminary in her own right, brought the distinguished reputation of Benjarong Manila to the collaboration. Under her leadership, the restaurant has consistently been recognized as a top dining destination, earning a spot on Tatler Philippines' Best Restaurants 2025, the THAI SELECT Seal of Approval, and multiple TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards.
Together, these two visionary chefs curated a journey through Thai flavors that was both familiar and groundbreaking. The collaboration was a testament to their shared commitment to culinary excellence, where artistry transcended the plate and every dish told a story. The event was not just a meal; it was a testament to the power of culinary partnership and a celebration of the enduring connection between Manila and Bangkok through the universal language of food.
Dusit Thani Manila extended its heartfelt gratitude to the guests, media, and partners who made "Manila Calls, Bangkok Answers" a resounding success, solidifying its place as a truly extraordinary and memorable occasion on the city's gastronomic calendar.
Sep 23, 2025
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