Chef Pichaya Soontornyanakij, known as Chef Pam, is a culinary star whose Bangkok restaurant, Potong, has garnered international acclaim. Within five years, she's become the first Asian to win The World’s Best Female Chef Award (2025), following her Asia’s Best Female Chef title (2024). This success is a testament to her exceptional talent and innovative approach.
Her journey began with a journalism background, but her passion for cooking led her to culinary school and a young chef award at 21. After training under Jean-Georges Vongerichten in New York, she returned to Thailand, establishing The Table and later, Potong. Potong, housed in a renovated 120-year-old building, offers a unique multi-sensory dining experience showcasing Thai-Chinese cuisine.
Potong's tasting menu, featuring her signature roast duck, tells the story of her family's heritage through innovative dishes. The multi-level restaurant design enhances the dining experience, creating lasting memories for guests. Her culinary creativity and commitment to excellence have made Potong a destination for food lovers worldwide.
Beyond her culinary achievements, she is a mentor and philanthropist. She co-founded the Women for Women scholarship, providing a culinary internship at Potong to underprivileged young women. With her global platform, she continues to inspire future generations and champion culinary excellence.





