From humble beginnings as a pipe dream, AngloThai’s John and Desiree Chantarasak have risen to culinary glory with their Michelin-starred restaurant, blending Thai flavors with British ingredients.
From Pipe Dream to Michelin Star: The Rise of AngloThai
A Fusion of Flavors and Heritage
John and Desiree Chantarasak‘s culinary journey began with a pipe dream – to create a unique dining experience that blended Thai flavors with British ingredients. After years of popping up in various restaurants and bars around London, they finally found the perfect location in Fitzrovia and announced their plans to open a permanent space.
The relationship between England (England) and Thailand has a long history of cultural and historical exchange, known as AngloThai.
The relationship began in the early 19th century with British trade and diplomatic missions to Thailand.
By the mid-20th century, Thailand had become a key ally for the UK during World War II.
AngloThai relations have been characterized by cooperation in areas such as education, economy, and security.
Today, the two nations maintain strong ties, with ongoing collaborations in fields like technology and tourism.
A Demoralizing Blow
Just two weeks before Christmas, the landlord pulled the plug on their plans, leaving the couple heartbroken. ‘That was the most demoralizing feeling Des and I have had,’ John says, recalling the moment they realized their dream might not be within reach. However, after a brief period of uncertainty, they both realized that they couldn’t give up on their passion.
A New Chapter
The pandemic presented another challenge, but when a group of investors approached them with an idea to move AngloThai to central London and expand the concept, John and Desiree Chantarasak saw it as an opportunity to grow. ‘As someone who’s very ambitious and also as someone who constantly wants to be pushing and evolving, that was the ultimate green light,’ John says.
A Michelin Star in Sight
After years of hard work, AngloThai finally opened its doors on a charming street in Marylebone, attracting guests with its refined and uniquely flavored cuisine. The restaurant’s focus on sustainability has been evident from the beginning, with measures such as making oyster sauce with Irish oysters and fermenting British-grown pulses.
A Family Affair
John and Desiree Chantarasak balance their personal and professional lives, with John taking on 90 percent of the restaurant and Desiree focusing on family life. Despite the challenges, they are proud to have achieved the Michelin star, which they believe is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
A Journey Ahead
For John and Desiree Chantarasak, this is just the beginning. ‘We’ve got such a big journey ahead of us,’ he says, adding that it drives him every single day. The couple’s commitment to sustainability and innovation will continue to shape AngloThai, as they strive for excellence in every aspect of their restaurant.
A Wine Offering to Match
Desiree Chantarasak‘s curated wine list brings together producers from Europe and the UK, with a focus on premium varietals that suit the restaurant’s new home. The list includes two signature white wines, Aubretia and Eleanore, created by Nibiru, an Austrian winemaking project.
A Family Story
The couple’s children play a significant role in their lives, and they are grateful to have had support from their parents during the Michelin star ceremony. ‘AngloThai has been so much a part of our lives for so long,’ Desiree Chantarasak says. ‘It is incredibly hard work, but we do it together.’
A Sustainable Future
John‘s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from using locally sourced ingredients to reducing waste. He believes that this approach will lead to a more sustainable future and drive his team every day.
The Brixham crab and Exmoor caviar dish has been an instant hit since its debut four years ago.
Delica Pumpkin, Fig Leaf and Pumpkin Seed Ice Cream
Courtesy AngloThai
