Luxury resort showcases global female star chefs

The Datai in Langkawi, a resort with a global reputation for excellence, will showcase some of the world's top female chefs for its 2024-25 edition of The Chef Series.

The Malaysian rainforest retreat has been a drawcard for 30 years now. Here is my report from a decade ago: https://www.gourmetontheroad.com/2014/08/a-magnificent-jungle-resort-with-superb.html.

The Datai's signature dining programme aims to celebrate gastronomic talent from around the world.

With a chef selection boasting nine Michelin stars between them, cuisines from across Asia and Europe will be showcased.

Each chef will create a bespoke menu guided by the produce of Langkawi and the organic ingredients cultivated in the resort’s zero-waste Permaculture Garden.

The names featured in The Chef-fe Series 2024-2025 are:

June 2024:
Florence Dalia of 16 by Flo, Taipei, Taiwan (formerly two Michelin stars)

August 2024:
Cristina Bowerman of Glass Hostaria, Rome (one Michelin star)

October 2024:
Angela Hartnett of Murano, London (one Michelin star) with
Lisa Goodwin-Allen of Northcote, Lancashire, UK (one Michelin star) and
Nieves Barragán Mohacho of Sabor, London (one Michelin star)

January 2025:
Ana Roš (below) of Hiša Franko, Kobarid, Slovenia (three Michelin stars and one Michelin green star)



Most of the dinners will be held at the resort’s spectacular fine dining venue, The Dining Room, overlooking the main pool and the Andaman Sea. It's a dramatic setting.

Selected chefs will also offer cooking demonstrations, some giving guests the chance to join a cooking masterclass.

Arnaud Girodon, CEO of Datai Hotels and Resorts, said: “This year’s ‘Chef-fe’ edition of The Chef Series promises to bring some truly extraordinary culinary experiences to our guests, who have come to know and love our resort for its exceptional dining in the dramatic surroundings of the rainforest.

"Through our guest cheffes, who represent some of the very best gastronomic talents from around the world, we are honoured to have the opportunity to showcase the bounty of exquisite local produce grown on-site and supplied by ethical producers and artisans who share our vision.”

The Datai is situated on the north-west tip of the island of Langkawi in Malaysia. It has 121 rooms, villas, and suites. See www.thedatai.com/events-and-occasions/the-chef-series

Fire the key ingredient for special barbecue dinners

Byron Bay's Barrio Eatery & Bar is beckoning to meat lovers with the launch of its once-a-month guest chef barbecue feasts hosted by chef Santiago Socrate (above).

Alastair Waddell kicks off the series on Wednesday, June 15, and will be followed by Matt Stone for "a creative BBQ" on July 6.

Waddell is known for his produce-driven cuisine using seasonal crops grown by the farm at Frida’s Field and other local producers.

"I am very excited to be representing Fridas Field at Barrio while cooking over fire with Santiago and the restaurant’s team," Waddell said.

"Our menu will focus on local beef and pork with some delicious surprises from Frida’s garden too. After working closely with Santiago for many years I am thrilled to be collaborating with him again.’

Fire is a central theme to Barrio Eatery & Bar.

“Our monthly guest chef BBQ is a great opportunity to share my favourite style of cooking with friends and colleagues, because that's what Asado (cooking over fire) is about," says Socrate.

"I am looking forward to firing up the grill with my friend and mentor chef Alastair Waddell once again."

Prices will: span $15 to $25 plates (and there will be vegan-friendly options. There will be two sittings at 5/5.30pm or 7/7.30pm. Booking is essential. See www.barriobyronbay.com.au