This International Women’s Day, we turn our focus to the dynamic culinary scene of Southeast Asia and the remarkable women shaping its future. These are not just rising stars – they’re established culinary powerhouses, adding their unique flavors and vision to the region’s vibrant F&B industry.
From helming Michelin-starred kitchens to receiving prestigious awards like Asia’s Best Female Chef, these chefs have redefined the landscape with their talent, innovation, and passion. Their influence extends far beyond borders, making waves on the global stage.
Join us as we celebrate the remarkable achievements and contributions of these trailblazers. They are not only breaking barriers in the world of food but also inspiring and empowering others within the vibrant world of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Janice Wong
Janice Wong, an artist, chocolatier, chef, and entrepreneur, has made a name for herself in the culinary world with her edible art installations. She considers herself half pastry chef and half artist and has been keen to explore the vast possibilities of 3D printers in her edible art projects. Wong’s accolades include being named ‘Asia’s Best Pastry Chef’ for two consecutive years at the prestigious San Pellegrino Asia’s 50 Best in 2014 and winning the Pastry Chef of the Year Award at the World Gourmet Summit three times. With her unique style that blends classic techniques with innovative ideas, Wong’s creations are a feast for the senses and a testament to her never-ending passion for the culinary arts.
Johanne Siy
Johanne Siy, an accomplished chef with a rich culinary journey, has been named Asia’s Best Female Chef for 2023. Siy’s achievement as Asia’s Best Female Chef makes her the first-ever Singaporean-based chef to receive this prestigious title. Siy’s training in the culinary field began when she enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in New York, where she joined the ranks of esteemed alums such as Enrique Olvera of Pujol, Grant Achatz of Alinea, and the late Anthony Bourdain. In 2020, Siy was appointed as the head chef at Lolla, where she transformed the Spanish-focused menu into an exceptional selection of dishes inspired by her upbringing in the Philippines and her culinary journey across Europe and the United States. Her leadership helped Lolla reach 75th place on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2022.
Kesia Putri
Indonesian-born pastry chef Kesia Putri Kurnianta boasts an impressive culinary background. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in both London (Patisserie) and Sydney (Restaurant Management), Kesia honed her skills under the tutelage of award-winning chef Peter Gilmore at Sydney’s renowned Bennelong Restaurant, where she served as Head Pastry Chef. Kesia further refined her craft at KOI Dessert Bar before returning to Indonesia in 2020. Since her return, she has lent her expertise to Akar Restaurant and Bar, and even embarked on a new venture – online bread sales and pop-up shops across major Indonesian cities.
Kim Pangestu
Renowned for her sweet creations, Kim Pangestu stands as a prominent figure in Indonesia’s culinary realm. Kim pursued her passion for pastry, earning her degree from Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney, Australia, her journey in the culinary industry has been marked by success and innovative collaborations. She honed her skills at esteemed venues like Tetsuya and Zumbo Patisserie, working closely with renowned pastry chef Adriano Zumbo. Currently serving as a pastry consultant for InterContinental Jakarta Pondok Indah, Kim crafts imaginative delicacies that tantalize both the taste buds and the eyes.
Lalita Setiandi
With prior experience as a pastry chef de partie at Sydney’s Bennelong Restaurant, Lalita Setiandi harbored a long-standing dream of opening her own shop upon returning to Jakarta in 2019. Amidst the challenges of a global pandemic, Lalita embarked on a remarkable journey to establish her artisanal bakery business. Starting as an online venture, LIT Bakehouse has blossomed into a coveted culinary destination in Glodok, Jakarta. Today, LIT Bakehouse stands as a testament to Lalita’s dedication, offering humble yet extraordinary treats that captivate the local community.
Pichaya ‘Pam’ Soontornyanakij
Renowned Chef Pam Pichaya Soontornyanakij has made history by becoming the first and youngest female chef to receive both the Michelin Star and “Opening of the Year” awards from the Michelin Guide. In addition to running several successful restaurants and bars, Chef Pam is a celebrated TV personality and the chef-owner of Potong, which was ranked No. 35 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023. In 2024, her culinary expertise and artistry earned her the title Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 from Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy. This prestigious award recognizes women in gastronomy who continue to push the boundaries of excellence through their skills and expertise. Chef Pam’s accomplishments make her one of the most prominent faces in Thailand’s culinary landscape.
