In the heart of Bangkok, a culinary revolution is taking place at Seasoning 36, a unique restaurant that has quickly become a hotspot for food enthusiasts. Opened just over two years ago, this Chef’s Table style establishment focuses on home cooking and has garnered a reputation for its exclusive dining experience, attracting customers from all walks of life.
Chef Benz – Akradej Techakesari, the mastermind behind Seasoning 36, has crafted a menu that not only showcases the richness of Thai cuisine but also elevates it to new heights. With a background in engineering and an MBA from the United States, Chef Benz’s journey into the culinary world began unexpectedly. While studying abroad, he discovered his passion for cooking during a university event where he prepared Thai dishes, leading to a part-time job in a restaurant kitchen. This pivotal moment ignited his love for food and set him on a path to culinary excellence.
Upon returning to Thailand, Chef Benz honed his skills by working on a popular cooking show and later pursued formal training in French cuisine in New York. His experiences in Michelin-starred restaurants shaped his culinary philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of high-quality ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.
Seasoning 36 is not just another restaurant; it is a reflection of Chef Benz’s vision to create a dining experience that is both intimate and memorable. The restaurant accommodates only six to eight guests at a time, fostering a close-knit atmosphere where diners can engage with the chef and learn about the dishes being served. This exclusivity has made reservations highly sought after, often filling up within minutes of opening.
“It was a tough decision to close my first restaurant to focus on Seasoning 36, but I knew I wanted to create something special,” Chef Benz shared. The name Seasoning 36 combines the concept of seasonal flavors with the number of the street where the restaurant is located, emphasizing the importance of fresh, seasonal ingredients in his cooking.
Initially, the menu featured a variety of dishes inspired by Thai, Japanese, and Western cuisines, but Chef Benz soon decided to focus on modern Thai cuisine. This shift was driven by his desire to showcase traditional flavors in a contemporary context, making them more accessible to a wider audience. "I wanted to create dishes that not only highlight the beauty of Thai food but also challenge the perception that it should be cheap," he explained. "People often wonder why they should pay 600 baht for green curry when they can get it for 60 baht on the street. My goal is to change that mindset and offer a unique dining experience that justifies the price.”
The restaurant's signature dishes include marinated shrimp and a unique eggplant dish with crab paste, which have remained favorites since the restaurant's inception. Chef Benz emphasizes the importance of creativity in his menu development, often drawing inspiration from social media and international dining trends to craft new offerings that surprise and delight his customers.
As the demand for high-quality dining experiences continues to grow, Chef Benz recognizes that the landscape is becoming increasingly competitive. “I’m not afraid of more restaurants opening up; instead, I focus on what makes us unique,” he stated. Seasoning 36 distinguishes itself by offering a private dining experience that is rare in Bangkok, coupled with a commitment to customer satisfaction.
The rise of food photography and social media has also influenced dining trends, with many customers seeking visually appealing dishes to share online. Chef Benz has adapted to this trend by ensuring that every dish not only tastes great but also looks stunning on camera. “Today’s diners are not just looking for great food; they want an experience they can share with others,” he noted.
In addition to the culinary experience, Chef Benz is dedicated to promoting Thai cuisine on a global scale. He believes that Thai food deserves to be recognized for its complexity and richness, and he aims to elevate its status within the culinary world. “Thai food is not just about pad Thai and green curry; it’s about the stories, the culture, and the history behind each dish,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Chef Benz plans to continue expanding Seasoning 36’s offerings while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that has become its hallmark. He is also exploring opportunities to collaborate with other restaurants and chefs, sharing his knowledge and passion for Thai cuisine.
“The key to success in this industry is to keep learning and evolving,” he advised. “I want to be able to adapt to changing consumer preferences while staying true to my roots.” With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, Chef Benz is poised to make a lasting impact on the culinary landscape of Thailand and beyond.
As Seasoning 36 continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and the enduring appeal of Thai cuisine. For those lucky enough to secure a reservation, the dining experience promises to be not just a meal but a journey through the flavors and stories that define Thai culture.
