Gen.T   |   Gen.T List

Pongcharn Russell

Executive Chef, FreeBird

 

Pongcharn Russell, also known as Top, is certainly living up to his nickname. Adopted at 2 by a British father and Thai mother, Phuket-born Top lived and worked in the UK for 12 years. At 17, he took the unconventional route and eschewed university to gain experience as a chef. His discipline and commitment eventually caught the eye of consultant Michelin-starred chef Alexis Gauthier, who picked Pongcharn to work in the team that established his renowned restaurant, Gauthier Soho. After gaining further experience at other top restaurants such as Pear and Sketch in London, under the tutelage of renowned chefs like Jun Tanaka and Pierre Gagnaire, Top decided to move back to Thailand. “Deep down I’m very patriotic and I’m happy to be back working in Thailand. I think it’s a great time to be here and there’s an exciting crop of younger chefs breaking through.” His biggest break came when he was entrusted with the position of executive chef at FreeBird. In addition to revamping the menu, he also holds frequent celebrity collaborations. In the coming years he hopes to start a project with his partner, Michelle Goh. He is Top Tables 2018’s Best Young Chef.

Impacted Industries


Recognitions


This website uses cookies to improve your experience. See our privacy policy.