Home Culinary Travel Thailand’s First Thai Chef to Earn a Michelin Star in Western Cooking

Thailand’s First Thai Chef to Earn a Michelin Star in Western Cooking

On November 28, 2024, Mia Restaurant proudly retained its one-Michelin-star rating in the eighth edition of The MICHELIN Guide Thailand. Since 2023, Chef Pongcharn “Top” Russell has been recognized as the first Thai chef to earn a Michelin star for Western cooking in Thailand. Alongside his wife, Chef Michelle Goh—the youngest Malaysian and first-ever Sarawakian chef to receive this prestigious recognition—this duo continues to redefine culinary excellence.

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Soi 26, Mia offers a captivating fine dining experience that blends bold Asian influences with elevated European techniques. Known for its striking maximalist interiors and commitment to delivering an exceptional culinary journey, Mia crafts three meticulously curated tasting menus: the signature Taste of Mia, a vegan menu, and a vegetarian menu—each evolving with the seasons to keep every visit fresh and dynamic.

At Mia, fine dining is as much about fun as it is about finesse. “We take what we do seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” says Chef Top. “By blurring the lines between professional, attentive service and a relaxed, playful atmosphere, we aim to create an experience that feels exciting, welcoming, and full of personality.”

Another highlight is Mia’s Wine Initiative, a groundbreaking approach to the beverage program that embodies the creativity, diversity, and collaborative spirit of the entire team. Spearheaded by Chef Michelle Goh and Chef Pongcharn “Top” Russell, this initiative empowers every team member—from chefs to floor staff—to contribute to Mia’s wine list through a fully democratic selection process, ensuring every bottle is chosen with unanimous agreement.

Chef Pongcharn ‘Top’ Russell

Born into a fishing family in Nakorn Si Thammarat and raised on Phuket’s picturesque shores, Chef Top’s journey is one of passion and perseverance. Moving to England at age 15, he discovered his love for the culinary arts while working part-time at the Priory Bay Hotel. Forgoing university, he immersed himself in Europe’s finest kitchens, including Gauthier Soho (which earned a Michelin star within six months of opening) and Sketch Lecture Room & Library under Pierre Gagnaire

In 2014, Chef Top expanded his expertise in Singapore under Jason Atherton at Pollen, eventually becoming Senior Sous Chef. Upon returning to Bangkok in 2016, he took on the role of Executive Chef at Freebird before founding Mia with his wife in 2019.

Chef Michelle Goh

Born in Kuching, Borneo, Chef Michelle Gohhas has redefined the possibilities in the world of fine dining for women. As the youngest Malaysian and first Sarawakian to earn a Michelin star, Michelle’s journey began at Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney. She further honed her craft under celebrated chefs Neil Perry and Jason Atherton.

At just 23, she led the pastry section at Bangkok’s two Michelin-starred Sühring, contributing to its first and second stars. Now, as Chef Patron of Mia, Michelle has earned acclaim for her innovative desserts, winning accolades such as “Best Dessert Menu” and “Young Chef of the Year.”

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