Pioneering hospitality entrepreneur Yenn Wong (pictured) is bringing the punchy, aromatic flavours of central Thai cuisine to The Landmark with Mak Mak Thai opening this month.
The new concept is the ninth restaurant under Yenn Wong’s JIA Group, a collection which includes Chachawan, Duddell’s and 22 Ships.
“In 2013 we brought Isaan (northern Thai) cuisine to Hong Kong with Chachawan. This year I’m excited to have this opportunity to offer central Thai cuisine to Hong Kong diners,” said Yenn Wong.
“The cuisine of Central Thailand is smooth, featuring long lasting flavours, intense spices and a touch of sweetness. It’s the Thai that we know and love. At Mak Mak, we bring you authentic Thai favourites expertly crafted for each season by the incredibly talented Chef Mumu,” said Yenn.
As with all of Yenn’s concepts, Mak Mak is creative in its design. An edgy experience reminiscent of 1960’s Bangkok is being recreated by NC Design & Architecture.
A retro replica of a Thai shophouse, Mak Mak is comprised of two spaces with distinctly different purposes. While a traditional venue found on the back streets of Bangkok would encompass a shop with the owner’s home attached, The Landmark destination features a storefront that bears resemblance to a traditional Thai grocery store with a 60-seat airy ‘Thai residence-style’ dining area hidden away behind it.
With its notably convenient location, Mak Mak’s storefront facilitates seamless takeaway orders for those working nearby, while the restaurant welcomes guests to enjoy the cosy, homey environment and familiar foods.
Classic Thai grocery store shelves and screens in the mall-facing entrance open to reveal a 60’s-style timber-lined home showcasing artworks and colourful tiled floors. Timber louvres are back-lit creating the subtle illusion of natural sunlight, while a secluded private dining area incorporates tiled walls and natural wood floors.
Bringing the classic flavours of central Thailand to life is Thailand-born executive chef Mumu.
Best known for her time at Yenn’s restaurant, Kha, in Singapore, Mumu has been dishing up traditional Thai cuisine since 2008 in a variety of restaurants ranging from fast and refined to high-end fine dining concepts.
Yenn Wong’s JIA Group includes 208 Duecento Otto, 22 Ships, Aberdeen Street Social, Ham & Sherry, Chachawan, Duddell’s, Meen & Rice and Fish School.