Suwijak ‘Mond’ Kunghae at Royd

Born into a family of seasoned restaurateurs in Phuket, Chef Suwijak “Mond” Kunghae has rapidly emerged as a formidable voice in contemporary Southern Thai gastronomy. After achieving executive chef status by age 24 and gaining national momentum following a celebrated victory on Iron Chef Thailand, he launched ROYD—a name translating to “tasty” and “cool” in the regional dialect. Here, his highly personal work firmly cements his status as this year's most compelling culinary talent.

Driven by a mission to elevate authentic Southern foodways, Chef Mond anchors his approach in the natural rhythm of the peninsula’s two distinct seasons: summer and rain. His tasting menus are deeply intertwined with the local cultural calendar, drawing sophisticated inspiration from ancestral customs and regional festivals. By collaborating intimately with local farmers and fishermen, he ensures that native ingredients lead each dish with remarkable clarity and balance.

Rather than relying on excessive modern manipulation, his execution is defined by confident restraint. Through his disciplined craftsmanship and profound respect for his cultural roots, Chef Mond is thoughtfully redefining the boundaries of regional Thai cuisine, establishing himself as a brilliant vanguard for the next generation of culinary leaders.