MASTERS OF TASTE

The chefs who are shaping the future of food

- WORDS KHURSHEED MISTRY

Chef “Pam” Pichaya Soontornyanakij

Chef Pam is a luminous presence in the world of luxury gastronomy—an icon whose culinary artistry continues to captivate discerning palates around the globe. As the first Asian and Thai female chef to be awarded a Michelin star for a Thai fine-dining restaurant and World's best female chef 2025, she effortlessly fuses modern sophistication with the depth of her Thai-Chinese heritage.

At her award-winning restaurant Potong in Bangkok, Chef Pam orchestrates exquisite, multi-sensory dining journeys that are both avant-garde and emotionally resonant. Each creation is a masterstroke meticulously composed, elegantly plated, and infused with cultural richness. Trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and honed in the world’s finest kitchens, she brings unmatched precision, creativity, and an elevated aesthetic to every dish. Beyond the kitchen, Chef Pam is a celebrated global television personality and one of the most recognised figures in contemporary gastronomy: a true curator of taste, tradition, and modern Asian luxury.

In haute cuisine, chefs are global tastemakers and cultural icons. This feature profiles acclaimed chefs worldwide, blending tradition and innovation. From Michelin stars to street food, they craft unforgettable experiences rooted in heritage and purpose. Discover their stories and the creativity shaping the future of food.

Jorge Colazo

Chef Jorge has been appointed Executive Chef of The Ritz-Carlton, Baku, bringing with him a distinguished legacy of global culinary excellence and refined gastronomic artistry. A true master of his craft, Chef Jorge is poised to elevate Baku's luxury dining scene with his signature blend of bold flavours, technical precision, and elegant presentation.