Sabai, a modern Thai restaurant, is opening at G/F Shangri-La The Fort, BGC in Manila, Philippines. Chef Assavadathkamjorn Puwadol, with experience in Michelin-starred and World’s 50 Best-ranked restaurants, offers a vibrant dining experience with honest flavors, regional identity, and warm hospitality. Sabai is the first concept from the dynamic team behind Uma Nota Manila, Alex Offe, and Michael J. Needham, aiming to elevate the city’s dining landscape with an unparalleled Thai experience. The name “Sabai” translates to “relaxed” or “comfortable” in Thai and “Sabay” in Tagalog, reflecting the restaurant’s goal of connecting and sharing enjoyment.
Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Puwadol Assavadathkamjorn, a native of Southern Thailand, poised to introduce Manila diners to the region’s distinct and often underrepresented flavors. Chef Puwadol brings a wealth of experience from world-renowned establishments, including Michelin-starred Le Normandie by Alain Roux and Pru Restaurant. Notably, he was part of the team at Sühring in Bangkok when it achieved two Michelin stars and secured high rankings in Asia’s Best 50 Restaurants and the World’s Best Restaurants lists. He also honed his skills as Chef de Cuisine at Loyrom under Chef Cuan Greene (formerly of Noma and Geranium). At Sabai, Chef Puwadol fuses traditional Thai elements with avant-garde techniques learned across global cuisines, presenting authentic recipes with a modern, refined twist.
“I’m excited to bring the bold, soulful flavors of my home — especially those from the south — to Manila,” says Chef Puwadol. “At Sabai, we honour tradition and present it in an elevated way, using techniques I’ve learned in fine dining, but never losing the food’s heart or honesty.”
The menu at Sabai is a vibrant exploration of Thailand’s regional culinary heritage. Each dish proudly states its place of origin, crafted with authentic spices imported directly from Thailand, select herbs explicitly grown for the kitchen, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Complementing the exceptional food is an environment designed by Hong Kong-based LC Studio. The 124-seat restaurant features two main dining areas and three private dining rooms (ranging from 6 to 20 guests). The design incorporates traditional Thai elements like woven details and radial patterns, reinterpreted with modern elegance. Adding a unique entertainment dimension, the two larger private rooms feature karaoke, celebrating a beloved pastime in Thai and Filipino cultures. A thoughtfully curated drinks list features cocktails and beers to enhance the cuisine.
“Following the success of Uma Nota Manila, Sabai represents our passion for creating original, world-class dining experiences here in Manila,” state partners Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham. “We are incredibly proud to partner with Chef Puwadol, whose exceptional talent will showcase authentic Thai cuisine like never before. Sabai, meaning both ‘comfort’ in Thai and ‘together’ in Tagalog, perfectly captures our vision for a relaxed yet elevated space where guests can connect over extraordinary food and genuine hospitality, setting a new standard for Manila’s dining scene.”
Sabai is poised to become a must-visit in Manila for diners looking for more flavor, story, and presence. From lively nights in private rooms to quiet moments over fragrant bowls, Sabai offers an experience that is as honest as it is elevated.
