Sood by Chef Ton Leads Penang’s Rise in Thai Culinary Recognition at Thai SELECT 2025

At the 2025 Thai SELECT Awards held in Kuala Lumpur, Penang made a powerful impression on the national stage. Seven restaurants from the island were recognized by the Thai government’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) for their commitment to authentic Thai cuisine — and at the center of this wave is Sood by Chef Ton, the shining star among them.

A New Benchmark for Thai Cuisine in Penang

Set in a 150-year-old heritage building in George Town, Sood by Chef Ton is more than a restaurant — it’s a celebration of culture, fire, and story. Spearheaded by Chef Ton of Le Du Bangkok fame and helmed locally by Chef Nutz, Sood brings modern Thai storytelling into the heart of Penang’s UNESCO zone, offering an experience that fuses Penang’s multicultural soul with Thai culinary precision.

From presentation to philosophy, Sood stands apart. While several Penang restaurants earned recognition for serving quality Thai fare, Sood is the one that has captured imaginations, media attention, and diner loyalty with its bold approach and immersive hospitality.

2025 Tasting Menu from Sood by Chef Ton

Signature Highlight: Charcoal-Grilled River Prawn with Pomelo Salad

At Sood, the dish that has become an emblem of the restaurant’s philosophy is the Charcoal-Grilled River Prawn with Pomelo Salad. Using open flame to bring smoky intensity to a fresh river prawn, and pairing it with juicy Penang pomelo and herbs, this dish bridges the rustic Thai roots with modern technique — a nod to Chef Ton’s Bangkok classics with a uniquely Penang twist.

Sweet Finish: Banana Ice Cream with Toasted Coconut Crumble

Equally memorable is the Banana Ice Cream, a dessert that transforms humble Thai street ingredients into something luxurious and nostalgic. Topped with toasted coconut crumble and served with warmth, it’s an ode to kampung childhoods — elegant, emotional, and honest.

Penang’s Full Lineup of Thai SELECT 2025 Winners

While Sood leads the spotlight, Penang’s presence at this year’s awards is a testament to the city’s growing appetite for Thai excellence. Recognized under various categories for authenticity, consistency, and overall experience, here are the Thai SELECT-certified restaurants from Penang:

Restaurant	Thai SELECT Category
Sood by Chef Ton	Classic
Pennapra Private Dining	Signature
Blue Chang Modern Thai Cuisine	Classic
Chili Head Bar & Eatery	Classic
Caffeine Cartel	Casual
WhatSaeb Boat Noodles	Classic
The Thai เดอะไทย Café & Restaurant	Classic

Each brings something unique — from fine-dining atmospheres to casual modern eateries — but Sood stands tall as the standard-bearer for the future of Thai cuisine in Penang.

Closing Line:With its creative spirit, deep respect for Thai culinary roots, and immersive Penang setting, Sood by Chef Ton doesn’t just represent Thai cuisine in Penang — it redefines it. As the Thai SELECT Awards elevate national attention toward authentic Thai food, Sood leads the way, reminding us that the best meals are the ones that tell unforgettable stories.