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28 June 2026
Chef Tipa blends southern Thai heritage with Maldivian ingredients
For a limited time, Saffron Maldives at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru invites guests on a culinary journey through the rich flavours of Southern Thailand, till 17 July 2026. Guided by Chef Tipaporn Phianthong (Chef Tipa), Head Chef of Saffron, Banyan Group, the exclusive menu showcases authentic regional recipes thoughtfully reimagined with selected locally sourced ingredients from the Maldives, celebrating the natural connection between two island cultures.We sat down with Chef Tipa to learn about her culinary journey, the inspiration behind the menu, and why Southern Thai cuisine continues to capture hearts around the world.
Can you tell us about your culinary journey and what led you to specialise in Southern Thai cuisine?
I was born and raised in Phuket, where food is deeply connected to our culture and everyday life. Some of my earliest memories are of family meals, local markets, and recipes prepared using fresh ingredients from the sea and nearby farms. Those experiences inspired my passion for Southern Thai cuisine and taught me that every dish carries a story.
As I developed my career, I wanted to preserve these traditions and introduce them to guests around the world. Southern Thai cuisine is incredibly diverse and reflects the heritage of our coastal communities, so it has become the cuisine I am most passionate about sharing.
What makes Southern Thai cuisine unique?
Southern Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavours, aromatic spices, fresh seafood and generous use of herbs. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, our cooking naturally reflects the abundance of the ocean while incorporating ingredients such as coconut, turmeric, lemongrass, curry leaves and kaffir lime.What makes it so distinctive is the harmony between spicy, sour, salty and savoury flavours. Every ingredient has its purpose, creating dishes that are vibrant, layered and deeply connected to Southern Thailand's coastal heritage.
How did you come up with the idea of curating this special menu for Saffron Maldives? What makes the menu unique?
When I first arrived in the Maldives, I immediately noticed how closely our two island cultures are connected through the sea. Both Southern Thailand and the Maldives celebrate fresh seafood and simple ingredients prepared with great respect for tradition, and that became the inspiration for this menu.
This special menu was thoughtfully curated by our Thai Chef de Cuisine, Chef Rawiwan Na Takuathung (Chef Ann). Together, we wanted to celebrate the connection between Southern Thailand and the Maldives by combining authentic Southern Thai recipes with selected locally sourced ingredients. The result is a menu that remains true to Thai culinary traditions while offering guests something they can only experience here.
One of the highlights is the Thai Kiru Garudhiya Curry. The dish combines locally sourced freshly caught fish with homemade Thai yellow curry paste, traditional Maldivian Dhivehi Hakuru paste, fresh coconut milk, Thai herbs, fresh curry leaves and betel leaves. It beautifully brings together the culinary heritage of two island nations in a single bowl.
Guests will also discover locally sourced tuna presented through authentic Southern Thai recipes, including Pla Tuna Yang Bai Cha Plu, grilled tuna wrapped in fragrant betel leaves and served with Miang Kham sauce; Yum Pla Tuna Foo, crispy Maldivian tuna with green mango, herbs and spicy dressing; and Phla Tuna Yang, grilled yellowfin tuna paired with a refreshing Thai herb salad. Each dish celebrates the freshness of local ingredients while remaining true to the flavours and techniques of Southern Thailand.
How does the setting of Saffron enhance the dining experience?
Saffron combines authentic Thai cuisine with stunning ocean views and warm hospitality, creating a dining experience that engages all the senses. The restaurant's contemporary Thai design sits beautifully within the natural surroundings of the Maldives, allowing guests to feel immersed in both destinations at once.
What makes the experience especially meaningful are the traditions that accompany the meal. From the welcoming hand-washing ritual to the Rice Master ceremony, these thoughtful touches reflect Thailand's deep respect for hospitality, gratitude and the sharing of food. Together with authentic flavours and attentive service, they invite guests to experience not only Thai cuisine, but also the culture and values that have shaped it for generations.
What was your first impression of the Maldives?
I was immediately impressed by the crystal-clear waters, beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. It feels like the perfect destination to enjoy great food while reconnecting with nature.
I was also inspired by the opportunity to work with selected locally sourced ingredients from the Maldives. They allowed us to create dishes that feel unique to this destination while remaining true to the authentic flavours and techniques of Southern Thai cuisine.
What do you hope guests take away from this experience at Saffron?
I hope guests leave with wonderful memories, a deeper appreciation for Thai cuisine, and a genuine connection to the flavours and hospitality that define Saffron.
Every dish tells a story—of Southern Thailand's culinary heritage, traditions passed down through generations, and the shared connection between Thailand and the Maldives. If our guests leave having discovered something new about Thai culture while creating memorable moments around the table, then we have achieved exactly what we hoped for.
