Restaurateur Samyukta Nair is set to debut Koyn Thai next month, collaborating with Bangkok-born chef Rose Chalalai Singh.
Koyn made its debut in London's Mayfair in September 2022 as a modern Japanese izakaya restaurant.
Starting from June 16th, Koyn Thai will occupy the downstairs area at Koyn Japanese, presenting a menu that merges Singh's authentic Thai cuisine with the café ambiance of Paris' 11th arrondissement, where she previously worked.
The menu will feature dishes inspired by flavors from various regions of Thailand, including offerings like toasted coconut pomelo salad, wild garlic, green chili, and Thai basil 'escargots,' as well as a Chiang Mai platter showcasing spicy homemade pork sausage, capsicum nam prik, sticky rice, and crackling pork skin.
For the design, Nair has collaborated with Tom Strother of Fabled Studio to incorporate the artworks of Chiang Mai artist and printmaker Kitikong Tilokwattanotai. This integration will complement features such as black oak ceilings, handmade terracotta roof tiles, and lacquer antiques.
Meanwhile, the Koyn bar will serve a variety of drinks, including classics like the Sabai Sabai, crafted from Mekong, citrus, and Thai basil, as well as the Blue Breeze, featuring blue butterfly pea-infused tequila, coconut water, and aloe vera.
Nair said: 'The cosmos of Koyn has always focused on duality and Koyn Thai is an exciting addition that takes this a step further. Travelling with Rose, eating together and finding inspiration that celebrates the diverse flavours of Asian cuisine is at the forefront of our collaboration, one that I am particularly excited to bring to London this summer.'
Singh added: 'I'm excited about my new home at Koyn Thai in Mayfair and the opportunity to be able to come to London and collaborate with Sam in the best way I know – with great spirit and the very best of Thai flavours.'
Nair has also spearheaded the launch of restaurants such as Jamavar, Mimi Mei Fair, and Socca in collaboration with Claude Bosi, all situated in London's Mayfair.