AngloThai by John and Desiree Chantarasak opens in London

AngloThai, blending Thai and Brisitih cuisines, officially opened its doors on the 11^th of November in Marylebone, London. Situated on Seymour Place, the establishment is the brainchild of John and Desiree Chantarasak, a husband-and-wife duo known for their highly acclaimed pop-ups and residencies. The restaurant’s launch marks the culmination of a nearly four-year search for the perfect location, in partnership with MJMK restaurants.

The menu at AngloThai reflects John Chantarasak’s dual heritage, combining the bold flavours of Thailand with British gastronomic traditions. The restaurant features both à la carte and tasting menus that evolve with the seasons, utilizing ingredients sourced from across the British Isles. Examples are the Brixham Crab with Exmoor Caviar on Coconut Ash Crackers, Ryall Farm Hebridean Hogget with Massaman Curry, and Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Sunflower Seed Satay & Puffed Quinoa, where a traditional peanut-based sauce is replaced with roasted sunflower seeds.

Rice, a staple in Thai cuisine, is present with ancient heritage grains, either simply steamed or used in standalone dishes like Wholegrain Farro, Long Peppercorn & Cured Beef. Farro grains are fried in aged beef fat, then braised in beef stock and seaweed.

John Chantarasak’s background includes significant stints at Thai restaurants such as Som Saa in London and Nahm in Bangkok. He has been recognized on Thailand Tatler’s Future List and was shortlisted as Chef to Watch in the National Restaurant Awards 2022.

Desiree Chantarasak’s expertise in wine is drawn from her extensive travels and meetings with some of the most innovative winemakers globally. She has curated a selection that includes accessible options and top-tier wines, emphasising producers who prioritise outstanding craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Stajerska Kollektiv from Slovenia and Château Le Puy from Bordeaux are some of the labels that sit alongside house wines named after the couple’s children, created in collaboration with Nibiru Wines in Austria.

The restaurant’s design, crafted by Thai-American designer May Redding, reflects contemporary Thai aesthetics while maintaining the cosy ambience of a well-loved home. The furniture, including a four-meter-long dining table in the private dining room Baan, expected to open in early 2025, is custom-made by Moonler from Chiang Mai using indigenous Chamchuri wood.

The dining experience is enhanced by a curated music programme developed by John Chantarasak and his friend Ben Baptie, with a mix of Thai and Western tracks, spanning from the 1960s to the 2020s.

Food Desk

For further information and reservations, visit AngloThai restaurant’s website here.