13 NOV - “Once in a Lifetime” Dinner – A Magnificent Culinary Collaboration Between Blue Elephant and basil
“Once in a Lifetime” Dinner – A Magnificent Culinary Collaboration Between Blue Elephant and basil
A Charity Gastronomic Journey in Support of Operation Smile and Mercy Centre Klong Toey
Bangkok, Thailand — [4 November 2025] — In a moment destined to be remembered as one of Bangkok’s most extraordinary culinary events, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok proudly presents “Once in a Lifetime” – an exquisite Four-Hands Charity Dinner that unites two icons of Thai gastronomy: Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe of Blue Elephant and Chef Manachai Konkangplu of basil.
Taking place on Thursday, 13 November 2025 at basil, this exceptional evening is more than a dinner — it is a journey through time, flavor, and compassion, bringing together the past and present of Thai culinary artistry in support of Operation Smile and the Mercy Centre Klong Toey, under the Marriott Worldwide Business Council Thailand’s “Road to Give” initiative.
A Dialogue of Eras: Tradition Meets Evolution
In a mesmerizing six-course experience, Master Chef Nooror and Chef Manachai engage in a culinary dialogue — each course a reflection of their philosophies, heritage, and devotion to the Thai kitchen.
Together, they weave an unforgettable narrative where royal recipes once lost to time meet modern interpretations of simplicity perfected through precision.
The evening begins with the “Prelude to the Journey,” where Chef Manachai’ s Raw Thai Wagyu Beef Salad with Wild Basil Leaves pays homage to his Isan roots. Bold yet refined, this dish transforms a humble hunter’s recipe into a modern expression of courage and craftsmanship.
In “Chapter I – The Encounter,” Master Chef Nooror presents her iconic Phetchabun Tamarind & French “Landes” Foie Gras and Chicken Wing — a groundbreaking creation that first redefined Thai fine dining 45 years ago. This symphony of tamarind, palm sugar, and foie gras remains a landmark in Thai culinary innovation, epitomizing the fusion of Thai heritage and French elegance.
“Chapter II – The Dialogue of Masters” unfolds as a crescendo of collaboration.
Chef Manachai’s Southern Thai Blue Crab Curry, a tribute to his mentor Ajarn Srisamorn, harmonizes traditional southern spice with contemporary finesse.
The course continues with Sea Bass with “Whisper of Love” — Chef Manachai’s signature reinterpretation of the classic curry, paired with a crisp pandan-wrapped black sticky rice whose texture and legend embody Thai romance reborn.
It is followed by Master Chef Nooror’s Klong Phai Free-Range Chicken Curry with Rice Noodles & Southern Braised Beef Cheek in Green Curry Paste, a radiant union of flavors inspired by her royal Thai lineage and global artistry.
The journey culminates in the “Finale – The Sweet Reminiscence,” as Chef Manachai reawakens the royal dessert Kanom Koh Mapraw Orn.
Steamed glutinous rice dumplings filled with sweet shredded coconut are bathed in อบเทียน (candle-scented) coconut cream — perfumed with cinnamon, jasmine smoke, and pandan — an aroma that whispers of ancient Thai kitchens illuminated by candlelight.
A Night of Heritage, Heart, and Humanity
This exceptional collaboration extends beyond gastronomy — it is a celebration of Thai culture, generosity, and the spirit of giving back.
The event forms part of Marriott International’s global “Road to Give” initiative, an annual charity movement uniting associates and guests across the world through wellness and community-driven fundraising efforts.
All proceeds from the evening will be donated to Operation Smile, which provides free cleft surgeries for children in need, and the Mercy Centre Klong Toey, which supports underprivileged communities in Bangkok through education and care.
“This dinner is more than a culinary collaboration; it is a dialogue between generations — where legacy meets evolution,” said Anne Poonnika, Executive Assistant Manager, Sales & Marketing at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit. “To see Master Chef Nooror and Chef Manachai share one kitchen, one vision, and one purpose is a moment of grace. Together, they remind us that true artistry transcends time — and that generosity, like great cuisine, begins with the heart.”
Event Details
Date: Thursday, 13 November 2025
Time: From 6:30 PM onwards
Venue: basil, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok
Price: THB 5,000++ per person, inclusive of exclusive wine pairing curated by sommeliers from Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit and Blue Elephant
About the Chefs
Master Chef Nooror Somany Steppe
Founder of Blue Elephant, Master Chef Nooror has spent over four decades preserving and promoting Thai cuisine across the world. Her culinary philosophy combines heritage and innovation, bringing royal recipes and forgotten flavors to modern audiences. A recipient of countless international awards, Chef Nooror stands as one of Thailand’s most influential culinary ambassadors.
Chef Manachai Konkangplu
Executive Chef of, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, Chef Manachai represents a new generation of Thai culinary artistry — rooted in tradition yet defined by innovation. His cuisine honors regional ingredients, his Isan upbringing, and the mentorship of Ajarn Srisamorn, all refined through contemporary techniques and global finesse.
