Have you ever heard of Bo.lan before?
It’s a one-Michelin-starred restaurant in Bangkok that prides itself on working with farmers to get the best produce on the plate while also paying them the rightful amount. It was founded by two chefs, Duangporn Songvisava and Dylan Jones, taking inspiration from Chef Duangporn’s nickname, Bo, and the second half of Dylan’s name, Lan; hence, Bo.lan.
Their story started in London, where the pair met while working under renowned chef David Thompson’s Thai restaurant, Nahm. Bo and Dylan eventually became a couple and moved to Bangkok with a clear goal: to cook native Thai food the way it was meant to be made, without watering down the intense spices and flavors for foreign palates. Thus, Bo.lan opened its doors in 2008 and became known for its uncompromising Thai flavors.
Despite its strong reputation and Michelin rating, the restaurant closed back in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and the lack of government support for local businesses. But after five long years, the restaurant finally made a comeback, though not in the same capacity as before. Rather than the nightly servings people were accustomed to, they now have a Grocer where they sell raw ingredients and produce, and a new restaurant called Err. The seating is limited to 12 people, with a curated chef’s table that gives visitors a samrup-style serving—a traditional Thai style of serving with food presented as a complete set of complementary dishes, rather than in sequential courses.
They also live and breathe sustainability. The restaurant works directly with 60 suppliers, mostly small-scale farmers and artisans, ensuring that every ingredient is ethically sourced and aligns with their strict mission toward achieving a zero-carbon footprint. From the big things like an in-house water filtration system to avoid purchasing water in plastic bottles, to the little things like having aprons made of organic materials with non-toxic dyes, Bo.lan is committed to advocating for responsible sourcing, biodiversity, and stronger relationships with local communities that support the food industry.
All in all, it’s a unique Thai experience of food and hospitality when you visit Bo.Lan.
Have you tried eating here before? Tell us your experience in the comments!