Welcome to POTONG, the epitome of progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine that tantalizes all your senses within the vibrant setting of Chinatown. With a Michelin Star earned within its first year of operation, this extraordinary restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that pays tribute to Chef Pam’s ancestral heritage and captivates food enthusiasts from around the world.
A Historic Journey
Immerse yourself in the captivating story of POTONG as it transports you through the enchanting streets of Chinatown. Begin your adventure with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant old market, where the air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of spices, tea, and herbs. Nestled in a hidden alley, you’ll discover POTONG, a true gem that resides within the very walls where Chef Pam’s ancestors once produced Chinese herbal medicine. This remarkable establishment is a testament to the rich history and cultural tapestry of the area.
POTONG draws its name from the Chinese word for “simple,” reflecting its profound legacy that traces back to 1910, when Chef Pam’s family first established their Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine business in the heart of Chinatown, Bangkok. Housed within a magnificent SINO-Portuguese building, POTONG stands tall, embodying generations of heritage and exquisite craftsmanship. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through time, uncovering the captivating story and culinary philosophy that define this extraordinary establishment.
Exquisite Ambiance
Step into a world where history and art intertwine, as POTONG sets the stage in a remarkable historic building that stands as a testament to architectural brilliance. With its SINO-Portuguese design, this iconic structure rises above the bustling streets of Bangkok Chinatown, capturing the imagination with its timeless elegance. A marvel of construction techniques, this five-story masterpiece has been a cherished home for Chef Pam’s family for over a century, where they once produced traditional Chinese medicine under the esteemed name “保坤益母藥” (bǎo kūn yì mǔ yào).
As I entered Potong, I was immediately transported to a bygone era. The attention to detail in recreating the ambiance of Chef Pam’s grandparents’ home is awe-inspiring. Every corner exudes a sense of antiquity, with carefully chosen decor, vintage artifacts, and a warm color palette that adds a touch of elegance. The restaurant’s intimate setting provides a sense of exclusivity, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the captivating atmosphere while savoring each culinary masterpiece.
The experience at POTONG goes beyond the visual spectacle. It transcends time and place as Chef Pam’s culinary genius takes center stage.
A Culinary Maestro
Chef Pam has honed her culinary skills through an impressive journey, refining her artistry at renowned establishments like the famous three-Michelin-starred Jean-Georges Restaurant in bustling New York City. Today, she shines as one of Thailand’s most respected and admired chefs, bringing her expertise and creative genius to the forefront at POTONG. With her unmatched knowledge, she creates a culinary masterpiece that goes beyond boundaries, captivating even the most discerning palates.
By embracing the 5 Elements – Salt, Acid, Spice, Texture, and Maillard Reaction – Chef Pam harmonizes flavors and textures, crafting a symphony of culinary delights. Each element contributes its own unique touch, resulting in a dining experience that takes guests on a sensory journey they won’t soon forget. At POTONG, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to embody these principles, making it a haven of sensory pleasure, where patrons can immerse themselves in a world of exquisite flavors and embark on an extraordinary gastronomic adventure.
Embark on an Epistolary Feast
Immerse yourself in the culinary artistry of POTONG as you embark on a gastronomic adventure through Chef Pam’s +20-course menu. Each dish is a heartfelt tribute to her great-grandparents, unveiling cherished memories and Thai-Chinese heritage. With meticulous craftsmanship and a harmonious blend of flavors, Chef Pam transcends boundaries and captivates discerning palates. As the culinary canvas unfolds, POTONG transforms into a temple of sensory indulgence, inviting guests to revel in a symphony of flavors. From tantalizing street food delights to exquisite Chinese delicacies, every dish promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you yearning for more. Indulge in the nostalgia and embark on a gastronomic voyage like no other at POTONG.
The Grand Performance
At Potong, each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted and presented with impeccable precision. The visual allure is only surpassed by the explosion of flavors that dance on your tongue. From the vibrant hues to the intricate arrangement, every element is thoughtfully placed, creating a sensory symphony that enchants both the eyes and the taste buds. The flawless execution of each dish is a testament to the culinary mastery that has earned Potong its well-deserved Michelin star.
Prepare to be captivated by the captivating spectacle that accompanies every dish at Potong. This carefully choreographed performance art engages all your senses, immersing you in a mesmerizing culinary journey.
As we took our initial bite at the table, a symbolic tree adorned with vibrant oranges captured our attention, serving as a poignant reminder of the orange’s esteemed status as the fruit of prosperity in China. This thoughtful gesture set the tone for the auspicious journey that awaited us at POTONG, where every detail was meticulously curated to enhance our dining experience and celebrate the rich cultural traditions that permeate the cuisine.
Here are a few highlights that left an indelible impression:
- The blue crab dish, with its playful and enlightening flavors, tantalized the taste buds.
- The seabass, accompanied by a Thai herb salad, delighted the palate with its sensational taste.
- The fish maw, bursting with umami flavors, provided an unexpected and delightful experience.
- The dry-aged Surat Thani white pomfret, with its elegance and exquisite presentation, showcased the artistry of the kitchen.
- The hay-aged duck, reaching sublime heights, was the crowning glory of the meal.
The exceptional dining experience at Potong extends beyond the culinary creations to the flawless service and meticulous attention to detail. The knowledgeable and attentive staff create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making every guest feel like royalty.
A Sweet Finale
As a grand finale to the gastronomic adventure, we indulged in a quartet of delightful desserts. The sweet symphony began with a refreshing ice cream that served as a palate cleanser, awakening our taste buds for the delights to come. Next, we savored a delectable reinterpretation of the iconic kaya bread, where homemade French brioche paired harmoniously with ice cream, corn, and honeycomb, elevating this classic treat to new heights of fine dining. Our senses were then dazzled by a theatrically prepared shaved ice cream, created before our very eyes. And finally, we experienced pure bliss with the chocolate dome, a testament to the chef’s past at a renowned French restaurant in New York. Among these tantalizing choices, the chocolate dome emerged as a personal favorite, offering a heavenly conclusion to our unforgettable culinary odyssey at POTONG.
In Conclusion
POTONG stands as a testament to Chef Pam’s determination to forge a new future while honoring her family’s legacy. Within its historic walls, the restaurant encapsulates the essence of dining on a spiritual level, where cuisine, wine, service, and ambiance converge harmoniously. It is a place where time and memories intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on each guest’s experience. Prepare to be transported on a captivating journey through progressive Thai-Chinese cuisine at POTONG, where history, culinary ingenuity, and heartfelt passion converge to create an extraordinary dining adventure.
My sincerest gratitude to the POTONG team for inviting me and my guest to partake in this remarkable dining experience.
Practical Information
Price
- Tasting Menu (20+ courses): THB 4500++ per guest
- Wine pairing (6 glasses): THB 2,900++
- Kombucha pairing (6 glasses): THB 950++
Location: POTONG RESTAURANT 422 ถนน วาณิช 1 เขตสัมพันธวงศ์, Samphanthawong, สัมพันธวงศ์, Bangkok 10100
To Book: Email: potong-opium@thexprojectbkk.com Follow: @restaurant.potong
Operating Hours: Open from Thursday to Monday: 17:00-23:00 Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday
Transportation : Parking available at Chaiyaphum Karam Temple Parking Building Nearest Bangkok MRT BLUE Line station: Wat Mangkon (BL29) – Take Exit 1
Note :Prices and operating hours are subject to change. It is recommended to check the restaurant’s official channels for the most up-to-date information.
