Thai cuisine takes the spotlight at Benjarong Manila as MICHELIN-starred chef Napol “Joe” Jantraget joins Chef Watcharaphon “Ja” Yongbanthom for “Manila Calls, Bangkok Answers,” a two-night culinary collaboration on October 15 and 16, 2026, at 7 PM.
Two Cities, One Table
Held at Benjarong, Dusit Thani Manila’s Thai restaurant, the dining experience features a seven-course menu that brings together two distinct approaches to Thai gastronomy.
Chef Ja’s interpretation of Royal Thai cuisine meets Chef Joe’s contemporary, research-driven approach, creating a menu inspired by their techniques, personal experiences, and culinary influences.
A Taste of Contemporary Bangkok
Chef Joe brings extensive experience from Bangkok’s dining scene. Classically trained in French culinary arts in Canada, he developed Coalescence Thai Cuisine, a philosophy that combines international techniques with Thailand’s indigenous ingredients, local terroirs, and traditional flavor profiles.
His career includes 80/20, where he earned his first MICHELIN Star, followed by several dining concepts, including Nawa Thai Cuisine, Kwann, Samlor, and Siplor. Nawa, which he established with his wife and pastry partner, Chef Saki Hoshino, earned a MICHELIN Star within nine months of opening and received the MICHELIN Guide Opening of the Year award. Meanwhile, Samlor received a Bib Gourmand distinction.
Through his work, Chef Joe continues to explore how Thai cuisine can evolve while remaining connected to its roots.
Honoring Royal Thai Cuisine
At Benjarong Manila, Chef Ja has spent more than a decade developing the restaurant’s culinary identity. Drawing from her experience in Thailand and the Philippines, she presents Royal Thai cuisine through a balance of authenticity, precision, and artistry.
Under her leadership, Benjarong has received recognition from the MICHELIN Guide and other dining institutions, establishing its place in Manila’s Thai dining scene.
Together, the two chefs bring their individual perspectives to a menu that celebrates both heritage and innovation. Their collaboration also draws from the flavors, memories, and experiences that shaped their culinary journeys.
Food with a Purpose
The event forms part of Dusit Thani Manila’s “Food for Thought” campaign for October, which explores the relationship between food and sustainability. The initiative highlights responsible sourcing, thoughtful culinary practices, and a greater appreciation for ingredients.
For diners, the collaboration offers an opportunity to experience Thai cuisine through two different culinary perspectives in one sitting.
The seven-course dinner is priced at ₱10,500 net per person. For reservations, call +63 (2) 7238 8888 or email restaurant.dtmn@dusit.com.
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