In a momentous occasion at the Michelin Guide ceremony in Thailand, the esteemed culinary guide has bestowed a coveted Michelin star upon 37-year-old Indian chef Garima Arora’s restaurant Gaa. Situated in a beautifully renovated traditional Thai house in Bangkok, Gaa had already held one Michelin star since 2018, making Garima the first Indian female chef to achieve this recognition at the age of 32.
Gaa’s current menu is described as an “explosion of flavors, textures, and ingredients” inspired by the diverse cuisines of India. It combines traditional Indian cooking techniques with local ingredients, offering a unique culinary journey.
Prior to opening Gaa in 2017, Garima served as the chef de partie at Noma in Copenhagen, consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants. Her culinary expertise also led her to a judging role on the Indian edition of Masterchef.
Gaa made its debut on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list in March 2019 at No. 16, receiving the Highest New Entry Award. Shortly after, it secured the 95th spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. As of 2020, Gaa holds the 33rd position on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Another Thai restaurant awarded two Michelin stars at the ceremony was Baan Tepa, known for its farm-to-table philosophy and a contemporary Thai tasting menu crafted with seasonal ingredients from sustainable sources.
Of particular note is that both award-winning restaurants are led by female chefs: Chef Chudaree ‘Tam’ Debhakam of Baan Tepa and Chef Garima Arora of Gaa. Baan Tepa achieved two Michelin Stars in the 2024 Guide, following its one-star recognition in the 2023 Guide. Gaa, holding two Michelin Stars, is now only the third Indian restaurant globally to achieve this distinction.
Michelin stars are prestigious culinary accolades determined by anonymous Michelin Guide inspectors, evaluating restaurants based on stringent criteria such as ingredient quality, culinary skill, creativity, and consistency. These stars signify excellence, reflecting not only the chef’s culinary prowess but also the overall dining experience, including service and ambiance.