Mrs Chef Jocher: Baan Tepa Culinary Space

A culinary experience on a whole new level. We’ve been to several fine dining restaurants but this is the first where food isn’t the only experience but also showcasing local produce as well as the history of the place.

As we reached the restaurant, what greeted us was a house, built, which was built by the Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam’s grandmother in the 80s. After being greeted at the front desk, we were brought on a tour of the garden, situated at the rear. The weather was perfect as we were led on a tour of the garden. Various herbs and vegetables were planted in the garden, some of which were harvested and used in the dishes.

We were then brought on a tour of the restaurant, ground floor holds the kitchen as well as the main dining area. Level two has a function area as well as a lounging area for guests who come early. Part of the original floor was removed so that the dining area could be seen from the lounging area. Various keepsakes belonging to the chef’s family were displayed and we were also shown a prayer room, which still holds Buddha statues belonging to the chef’s family.

This isn’t just a culinary space. It is a display that marries the environment with the food, heritage with modernity, and of simplicity with indulgence.

The restaurant was dotted with many artifacts belonging to the chef’s family. We were told that her grandfather had been an advisor to King Rama 9 and the grandmother a close friend of the queen.

After a short rest, we were invited into the kitchen. This is the first time I ever entered a fine dining kitchen. The kitchen was immaculate and spotless. We were brought to a table where our first dish awaited. The sous chef personally introduced the dish, a wedge of peach, which was grown locally.

The food is contemporary modern Thai cuisine. Chef Tam includes the flavors that define Thai cuisine into her menu. Most of the ingredients are sourced locally with an emphasis of reducing food wastage. The dishes are her interpretations of local food. They were beautifully plated. Some were delicate in taste, others bold. Tones of ginger, calamansi, cardamom and other classic Thai flavors can be found. What was even more interesting was the final touches were all done in full view of the guests.

This isn’t a meal. It’s a story of Chef Tam’s roots, Thai cuisine and culture. And this story is amazing…