Sabai at Shang

Sabai at Shang | Daily Tribune

Prepare for a culinary journey grounded in depth, soul and regional tradition.

Sabai, a modern yet deeply authentic Thai restaurant, is set to open for soft launch on July 14th for dinner, and will begin full-day operations from 11 a.m. to midnight starting 21 July, at G/F Shangri-La The Fort, BGC (beside Uma Nota).

Helmed by Chef Assavadathkamjorn Puwadol, whose impressive pedigree includes experience in Michelin-starred and World’s 50 Best-ranked restaurants, Sabai promises a vibrant dining experience rooted in honest flavors, regional identity, and warm hospitality.

Sabai is the first original concept from the dynamic team behind the successful Uma Nota Manila, Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham.

Their latest venture aims to elevate the city’s dining landscape by offering an unparalleled, authentic Thai experience rooted in deep cultural respect. The name “Sabai” translates to “relaxed” or “comfortable” in Thai, embodying the restaurant’s aim to create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

It also shares a beautiful resonance with the Tagalog word “Sabay,” meaning “together,” reflecting the restaurant’s goal to be a place for connection and shared enjoyment.

Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Puwadol Assavadathkamjorn, a native of Southern Thailand poised to introduce Manila diners to the region’s distinct and often underrepresented flavors. Chef Puwadol brings a wealth of experience from world-renowned establishments, including Michelin-starred Le Normandie by Alain Roux and Pru Restaurant. Notably, he was part of the team at Sühring in Bangkok when it achieved two Michelin stars and secured high rankings in Asia’s Best 50 Restaurants and the World’s Best Restaurants lists.

He also honed his skills as Chef de Cuisine at Loyrom under Chef Cuan Greene (formerly of Noma and Geranium). At Sabai, Chef Puwadol will masterfully fuse traditional Thai elements with avant-garde techniques learned across global cuisines, presenting authentic recipes with a modern, refined twist.

“I’m excited to bring the bold, soulful flavors of my home — especially those from the south — to Manila,” says Chef Puwadol. “At Sabai, we honor tradition and present it in an elevated way, using techniques I’ve learned in fine dining, but never losing the food’s heart or honesty.”

The menu at Sabai will be a vibrant exploration of Thailand’s regional culinary heritage. Each dish will proudly state its place of origin, crafted with authentic spices imported directly from Thailand, select herbs grown specifically for the kitchen, and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Complementing the exceptional food is an environment designed by Hong Kong-based LC Studio.

The 124-seat restaurant features two main dining areas and three private dining rooms (ranging from 6 to 20 guests). The design incorporates traditional Thai elements like woven details and radial patterns, reinterpreted with modern elegance. Adding a unique entertainment dimension, the two larger private rooms will feature a fun karaoke experience, celebrating a beloved pastime in both Thai and Filipino cultures.

A thoughtfully curated drinks list will feature cocktails and beers designed to enhance the cuisine.

“Following the success of Uma Nota Manila, Sabai represents our passion for creating original, world-class dining experiences here in Manila,” state partners Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham. “We are incredibly proud to partner with Chef Puwadol, whose exceptional talent will showcase authentic Thai cuisine like never before.

Sabai, meaning both “comfort” in Thai and “together” in Tagalog, perfectly captures our vision for a relaxed yet elevated space where guests can connect over extraordinary food and genuine hospitality, setting a new standard for Manila’s dining scene.

Sabai is poised to become a must-visit in Manila for diners looking for something more: more flavor, more story, more presence.

From lively nights in private rooms to quiet moments over fragrant bowls, Sabai offers an experience that’s as honest as it is elevated.

Opening for soft launch on 14 July for dinner service, and officially operating daily from 11 a.m. to midnight starting 21 July, Sabai will welcome Manila’s urban professionals, creatives, business travelers and food lovers alike for social gatherings, elevated lunches, and celebratory nights out.