The Regent Bangkok's World Gourmet Festival 3 - An event not to be missed

Just one month away, the Regent Bangkok's, World Gourmet Festival 3, opens with a gala cocktail reception on Monday, September 16 and continues through Sunday, September 22. Another sensational line up of international chefs from Europe, Asia and North America will prepare delicious food paired with outstanding wines from famous vineyards from around the world. 

This year's celebrity list also includes a dynamic quintet of female chefs from the States. In addition there will be interactive cooking classes, evening wine tastings and seminars. 

World Gourmet Festival 3 - Chefs

Executive Chef Ian Chalermkittichai and The Regent Bangkok present a diverse group of renowned, international award-winning chefs presenting the finest culinary dishes from their homelands.

Ian Chalermkittichai, Executive Chef, The Regent Bangkok

Lauded as the 'Golden Boy' in Bangkok, Ian first studied Culinary Arts in London and Sydney. While in Australia Ian worked at the top Thai restaurant of its day, Darley Street Thai, and discovered his native cuisine. Now pleased to be home and holding one of the top culinary positions in the city, Ian adds a unique and fresh dimension to the Regent's award-winning kitchens.

Frank Braun, Executive Pastry Chef, The Regent Bangkok

Driven by the excitement of Asia and the allure of discovering the exotic spices, fruits and produce of the region, Frank is passionate about all aspects pertaining to the art of pastry. He loves finding fresh, new ideas and looks for innovative approaches to creating tasty pastries, breads and desserts. A native of Germany, Frank has been at The Regent Bangkok for 2 years.

Satoshi Sawada, Japanese Chef, Shintaro, The Regent Bangkok

Knowledgeable in the traditional culinary arts of Japan, Sawada believes food is something to be celebrated. He enjoys developing dishes that combine unusual and often adventurous ingredients. This young chef with his reserved manner and vast creative skills has turned Shintaro into one of the top eateries in the city.

Giovanni Speciale, Italian Chef, Biscotti, The Regent Bangkok

Giovanni has quickly developed a following in Bangkok. Known for its fresh, contemporary Italian fare, Giovanni has taken the food quality and presentation to all time new level. This hands-on chef is passionate about sourcing the freshest produce and creates food that is not pretentious. He believes in cooking food that is light, healthy and proudly serves food that marries tradition and innovation. 

Hubert des Marais, Executive Chef, Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach

Food & Wine Magazine's "One of America's Ten Best New Chefs"

Florida Trend Magazine's "Golden Spoon Award as the "Top 20 restaurant in Florida"

South Florida Magazine's "Critics Choice Awards as the One of the Best of the Year Restaurants"

This highly-awarded chef was born and raised in North Carolina. He is noted for his southeastern regional cuisine characterised by an inspired blend of traditions and flavours of the Deep South, Caribbean, and South and Central America. Much of his inspiration comes from his tropical herb and rare fruit garden. Passionate about sourcing the freshest local ingredients, Hubert searches far and wide for new and exotic fruits, vegetables and seafood. His aim is simple, to prepare deliciously healthy food that is fresh, flavourful and truly inventive in their marriage of textures and seasonings. 

Claudia Fleming, Gramercy Tavern, New York

James Beard Award "Outstanding Pastry"

Modern dance was artform that introduced Claudia to the world of food. She studied as a professional dancer for the first 25 years of her life and made a living by working in some of the top dining rooms in New York City. This immersion into the restaurant scene lead to a stint studying pastry at the prestigious Fauchon in Paris. From there she joined Gramercy Tavern. Claudia's baking style relies on the use of seasonal ingredients. She favours creations that maintain the integrity of each ingredient, and is committed to intense flavour over architectural flights of fancy. Her minimalist sensibility, ironically allows for maximum flavour. 

Michael Ginor, Co-founder, Hudson Valley Foie Gras, New York

James Beard Foundation, Culinary Institute of America New England Culinary Institute: National Advisory Boards 

Michael is co-founder, co-owner, and President of Hudson Valley Foie Gras, the most comprehensive Foie Gras producer in the world. He modernised the ancient delicacy known to Phaoros and kings by utilising the hi-tech and scientifically advanced production techniques of the 20th century. In addition to being a noted chef and food critic, Michael has authored books and magazine articles; organised cooking demonstrations and seminars and been involved in product development. 

Fabio Granata and Formisano Serafina Maria, Tre Gigli all'Incoronata Restaurant, Milan, Italy

One Michelin Star 

This skilled One Star Michelin chef is well known inside and outside of Italy for his superb food. For nearly a decade, Fabio has been serving innovative regional Italian cuisine at his restaurant Tre Gigli all'Incoronata. Schooled at I'ENAP in Milan, his early years were spent working at Al Gallo D'Oro, Balzi Rossi and La Scaletta before opening his own restaurant in 1993. 

Carrie Nahabedian, Naha, Chicago

Award-winning chef formerly of Executive Chef of Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles and Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara, this Chicago native credits her passion for cooking to strong Armenian roots and a family that enjoyed good food. She began cooking in her teens and held numerous positions at top Chicago dining spots and hotels. Heading west with Four Seasons to Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, Carrie developed the seasonal aspect of her cooking. Yet its the flavours of the Mediterranean that stand in her mind very vividly and are very much part of her personal cooking style. 

Nancy Oakes, Boulevard Restaurant, San Francisco

James Beard Award "Best Chef in California, 2001"

San Francisco's most beloved chef, Nancy has received endless accolades for her food. A self-taught chef, Nancy learned to cherish all aspects of food from searching for the freshest ingredients to perfect service. With classic French sensibilities and fresh, flavourful ingredients forming the backbone of her seasonal and modern American menu, a truly sensual experience awaits all of Nancy's guests. 

Fabrice Rossmann, Executive Chef, Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver

Apprenticed at Two Michelin Star restaurant Hostellerie Du Cerf and Two Michelin Star restaurant Destinée with Jean-Yves Schillinger. Born in the Alsace region of France, Fabrice knew at an early age that he wanted to be a chef. From apprenticeships and jobs at some of the best restaurants in Europe, he gained a solid understanding of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Currently residing in Canada, he describes his style as French with Mediterranean influences and a touch of five continents.

Lydia Shire, Locke Ober, Boston

James Beard Foundation "America's Best Chef - Northeast"

Cook's Magazine "Who's Who of Cooks"

Food & Wine Magazine's One of "America's Ten Best Chefs"

Lydia Shire isn't just a diva among chefs in New England, she is also one of the top chefs in the country. A native of Brookline, Maine, this chef-owner of Boston's celebrated BIBA and Pignoli restaurants received her initial training at Cordon Bleu in London. She serves vivid, sensuous, full-flavored food that is exhilarating to eat. When Lydia is in the kitchen expect adventurous creations that embrace every culinary culture under the sun.

Nancy Silverton, Campanile Restaurant and La Brea Bakery, Los Angeles

James Beard Award "Best Restaurant USA"- Renowned pastry chef, baker and cookbook author

Nancy is the master of making a mini empire out of artisan bread. Nancy was educated at the Cordon Bleu in London and Ecole Le Notre in Plaiser, France. She went on to create highly-acclaimed desserts at Wolfgang Puck's Spago prior to opening her highly successful Campanile restaurant and La Brea Bakery both in Los Angeles. 

THE DINNERS and SUNDAY BRUNCH

Monday, September 16 - The Premiere: WGF 3

This gala evening kicks off The Regent's week-long gourmet adventure! The party features a spectacular food station showcase of signature items prepared by all visiting chefs complemented by a collection of WGF 3 fine wines and beverages. Guests will also have the opportunity to mingle with the chefs and savour their signature creations. To keep the party rolling, entertainment is provided by 4-Tissimo.

Venue: Ballroom 
Time: 6:30 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1200 net

Tuesday, September 17 - Vive la France! 

Skilled Four Seasons Executive Chefs Fabrice Rossmann from Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver and Hubert Des Marais from Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach join forces to create a fabulous five-course French repast. This special dinner also features an outstanding selection of French wines and musical highlights from Les Miserables by 4-Tissimo. 

Venue: Ballroom 
Time: 6:30 pm 
Tickets: Baht 5295 net

Wednesday, September 18 - A Tour Around Your Tastebuds…. Regent Progressive Dinner

Embark on a gastronomic journey with four visiting chefs and two Regent chefs as you dine in five Regent outlets. The dinner will take you to Shintaro, Biscotti, Spice Market, Madison and the Lobby over the course of this one magical evening. Each chef will serve a signature dish at each stop along the culinary tour, accompanied by selected wines. 

Venue: Shintaro, Biscotti, Spice Market, Madison, and the Lobby
Time: 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm, and 8:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 4120 net

Thursday, September 19 - Super Bowl, an American Dinner

Join this popular quintet of top US female chefs from San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Boston and Chicago as they present a six-course dinner that showcases their award-winning dishes. Robert Mondavi wines will further enhance the amazing dinner. 

Venue: Madison
Time: 7:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 5295 net

Thursday, September 19 - Shintaro Ceremony

This unique celebration commences with an extensive sake cocktail tasting followed by a seven-course dinner. 

Venue: Shintaro
Time: 7:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 4120 net

Friday, September 20 - WGF 3 Gala Dinner

This event will delight and impress all food afficiandos! World Gourmet Festival's Gala Dinner features the creative masterpieces of all visiting chefs. The seven-course dinner highlights spectacular signature dishes from the United States, Asia and Europe. All dishes will be accompanied by fine wines. The evening's entertainment will feature The Bangkok Big Band. A charity auction to benefit HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana's Somdetya's Charity Fund will include luxury travel items from select Four Seasons hotels. 

Venue: Ballroom
Time: 6:30 pm 
Tickets: Baht 5650 net

Saturday, September 21 - Exclusive Foie Gras Dinner

Michael Ginor of Hudson Valley Foie Gras and New York State Foie Gras, the largest foie gras producer in the world, prepares a five-course dinner featuring the dynamic 'Four Seasons duo' Hubert Des Marais and Fabrice Rossmann. 

Venue: Regent 1
Time: 7:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 4590 net

Sunday, September 22 - Let's Do Brunch

The Sunday Brunch is a sell out event every weekend! Book early to enjoy this very special celebration as all visiting chefs add their favourite selections to The Regent's popular dining stations. Presented at Madison, Spice Market and Aqua, the bountiful feast will also feature some food specialties from the three restaurants plus Biscotti and Shintaro.

Venue: Madison, Spice Market and Aqua
Time: 11:30 am 
Tickets: Baht 2950 net 

Roman Holiday - An Italian Affair to Remember

One Star Michelin Chef Fabio Granata and Sara Formisano Granata will serve a dinner that is certain to rival the highly acclaimed cuisine served at their Tre Gigli all'Incoronata Restaurant in Milan. This Italian culinary affair will feature six courses and a dazzling collection of Italian wines. 

Venue: Biscotti
Time: 7:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 4120 net

COOKING CLASSES and SEMINARS

Tuesday, September 17 - American Cuisine

Presented by US female chefs Nancy Oakes, Lydia Shire and Carrie Nahabedian with Cosentino Winery

4-course lunch
Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1000 net 

The Pastries of Campanile presented by Nancy Silverton

Time: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 650 net

Wednesday, September 18 - Foie Gras Seminar

Presented by Michael Ginor paired with Dolce Far Niente

4-course lunch
Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1000 net 

Chocolate Seminar presented by Claudia Fleming

Time: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 885 net

Thursday, September 19 - Italian Cooking Class 

Presented by Fabio Granata and Sara Formisano Granata accompanied by Ruffino wine

3-course lunch
Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1000 net 

Friday, September 20 - Japanese Cooking Class 

Presented by Satoshi Sawada with Hakushika Sake Tasting

3-course lunch
Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1000 net

Saturday, September 21 - French Cooking Class 

Presented by Fabrice Rossmann and Hubert des Marais

3-course lunch
Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 1000 net

Saturday, September 21 - Afternoon Tea with a Shanghai Twist

Immerse yourself into the spirit and allure of exotic China. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at The Regent as Shanghai Tang presents their hottest designs enhanced by a Chinese Tea Presentation by Green Leaf. Afternoon tea also includes items created by the American female chefs.

Venue: Lobby
Time: 2:00 pm 
Tickets: Baht 700 net

WINE TASTINGS with RENOWNED WINERIES AND DISTILLERIES

Tuesday, September 17 - Chateau Haut-Bailly Tasting

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 1000 net

Wednesday, September 18 - Glenfiddich, Single Malt Whisky Tasting 

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 650 net

Thursday, September 19 - Bordeaux Tasting with World Champion Markus Del Monego

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 1000 net

Friday, September 20 - Baron Philippe de Rothschild Chilean/Almaviva Vertical Tasting

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 850 net

Sunday, September 21 - Ruffino Tasting

Time: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Tickets: Baht 850 net

Director of Food and Beverage Robert Logan said, "Following the popularity of last year's event we are even more excited to present this gastronomic odyssey in 2002. In conjunction with our talented team at The Regent Bangkok, we are delighted to present an exciting line up that takes our guests on innovative dining adventures that circle the globe. Never before has anyone in this country been able to sample the delights of the world's most loved and honoured chefs over an action-packed, seven-night extravaganza."

The Regent Bangkok is a proud supporter of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana's Somdetya's Charity Fund. A portion of all funds generated through World Gourmet Festival 3 will be donated to this prestigious foundation that strives to improve the lives of the underprivileged, sick and elderly especially in remote areas of Thailand.