Reach for the Stars: Anantara Layan Phuket Resort Launches Dara’s Cosmic Culinary Journey

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort invites guests to experience DARA Cuisine Phuket’s Cosmic Culinary Journey, an innovative series celebrating the artistry of Michelin-starred chefs, Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, and the creative brilliance of Chef Hong, DARA’s resident culinary visionary.

The resort proudly announced the grand opening of DARA Cuisine Phuket and Sky Observatory in April 2024, a one-of-a-kind venue blending modern Thai dining with celestial exploration. Nestled within the serene Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, DARA (meaning "star" in Thai) features a grill-focused menu highlighting seasonal ingredients, guided stargazing paired with celestial-inspired cocktails, and interactive Thai cooking classes. Honoring Thailand’s culinary heritage and Andaman seafarers who navigated by the stars, DARA offers daily experiences, including cooking classes from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, dinner service from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and stargazing with drinks from 6:00 pm to midnight.

Launching this December, DARA’s Cosmic Culinary Journey features a stellar lineup of Michelin-starred chefs from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Phuket, collaborating with Chef Hong to create exclusive, six-course menus. Together, they celebrate local produce and southern Thai flavors through dishes that blend tradition, innovation, and artistry.

The Star-Studded Line-Up Includes:

• December 13-14, 2024: Chef “Toei” Nattakit Kallayanamitr (Khao, 1 Michelin Star 2024)

• January 25-26, 2025: Chef “Oat” Nattaphon Othanawathakij (HEH Phuket, Rising Star Chef by Tatler Dining, Michelin-selected 2025)

• February 21-22, 2025: Chef Andrew Martin (Fatboy Izakaya, 1 Michelin Star 2023)

• March 28-29, 2025: Chef “Noom” Thaninthorn Chantrawan (Chim by Siam Wisdom, 1 Michelin Star 2025)

• April 6-7, 2025: Chef Sam Tran (Gia, Hanoi, Vietnam, Michelin Young Chef Award, 1 Michelin Star 2023, 2024)

“DARA represents the perfect harmony of innovation and tradition,” says Frederic Varnier, Vice President Operations – Thailand South Minor Hotels. “With DARA’s Cosmic Culinary Journey, we’re offering a dining experience that is not only world-class but also uniquely rooted in Thailand’s culture and natural beauty.”

Seats for this exclusive culinary series are limited. For details on DARA Cuisine Phuket and Sky Observatory or reservations, please visit www.daracuisinephuket.com or contact: +66 76 317200 | dara.alay@anantara.com

Dining Pricing for December 13 and 14, 2024: Cosmic Culinary Journey: THB 5,500++ per person Additional Wine Pairing: THB 1,600++ per person. Experience a stellar blend of tradition, innovation, and celestial wonder with DARA.