Thai-Japanese fusion concept dishes created by Baan Landai for the Living Contour cultural collaboration.

Our Passion for Thai Cuisine

Where tradition, creativity, and collaboration come together — on the plate and beyond.

At Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine, we believe food tells stories. Rooted in Thai culinary heritage and inspired by cultural exchange, our kitchen is where tradition meets bold new ideas. Through projects like Living Contour and cultural events at our restaurants, we create concept dishes and welcoming spaces that celebrate authentic Thai flavors while fostering cross-cultural creativity.

Our Culinary Collaboration with Japan

Living Contour: A Cross-Cultural Culinary Journey 

In August 2024, Baan Landai Fine Thai Cuisine was honored to take part in the University–City Platform “Living Contour” exhibition, a collaboration between Chiang Mai University and Saga University in Japan. 

We created four original dishes inspired by the shared cultural values of Thailand and Japan, emphasizing harmony between land, water, people, and heritage. These dishes reflect not only our creativity but also our respect for both cultures' histories and flavors. 

Green mango slices with sweet fish sauce and mushrooms on betel leaf.

Green Mango with Sweet Fish Sauce

A refreshing appetizer that balances the tang of green mango with a rich, umami-packed sauce made from snakehead fish and mushrooms, inspired by Kashima's lush nature and sacred sites.

Crispy fish wrapped in a net of pickled radish, concept dish from Living Contour project.

Catching Fish with a Net

A savory treat featuring fermented local fish wrapped in a crispy net of pickled radish, symbolizing the wisdom of “there are fish in the water,” a phrase deeply tied to both Kashima and Chiang Mai.

Tofu pudding with soy sauce, sugarcane caramel, and roasted rice crisps.

Khao Taen Tofu Pudding

A dessert inspired by the energetic spirit of the Kashima Gatagympics, combining soft tofu pudding with soy sauce, caramelized sugarcane juice, and roasted rice crisps.

Thai-style cocktail with jasmine, passion fruit, and Japanese sake served in a glass.

Son-in-Law of Chiang Mai

A drink with depth and elegance, fusing Thai passion fruit and jasmine with the sweetness and aroma of Japanese sake—representing harmony in a glass.

Presenting the Creations

Each concept dish and drink was carefully presented at the Living Contour exhibition, accompanied by storytelling panels and cultural context. The displays showcased the inspirations behind each item, blending Thai and Japanese traditions through taste, presentation, and symbolism. 

In the image on the right, members of the Thai and Japanese collaboration team—including the chef from Baan Landai—stand together, reflecting the spirit of cross-cultural unity that brought these creations to life.

Baan Landai chef with Japanese and Thai collaborators at Living Contour exhibition.
Concept dishes displayed in front of exhibition panels at Living Contour event.
Concept dishes displayed in front of exhibition panels at Living Contour event.

A Closer Look

Guests at the Living Contour exhibition explored the stories behind each creation through detailed displays and thoughtfully written panels. From the flavor inspirations to the symbolism in every ingredient, the experience invited visitors to reflect on the deeper meaning of Thai and Japanese food culture.

These images show how the concept dishes and drinks were presented in handcrafted bamboo trays, with accompanying story cards to guide the tasting journey.

Visitors listening to the chef's presentation at Living Contour exhibition.
Concept dishes packed in the gift box at Living Contour exhibition.
Concept dishes packed in the gift box t Living Contour exhibition.

Behind the Scenes of the Exhibition

Moments from the “Living Contour” event, where our concept dishes were presented and shared with visitors.

Living Contour concept dish sets arranged for exhibition guests.
Baan Landai team sharing concept dishes with visitors at exhibition.
Baan Landai team sharing concept dishes with visitors at exhibition.

Celebrating Chiang Mai’s Creative Spirit

Our passion goes beyond the plate. At Baan Landai Mae Rim, we proudly hosted the launch of Modern Architecture in Chiang Mai: The 1960s and 1970s, a book celebrating the city’s cultural and architectural heritage. Alongside cuisine, our walls feature works by Italian photographer Alberto Cosi, whose lens captures Chiang Mai’s evolving identity. By opening our space to authors, artists, and community members, we support conversations that shape Chiang Mai’s creative future.

Book launch event at Baan Landai Mae Rim with community members and authors

Book Launch Moments

Snapshots from the Modern Architecture in Chiang Mai launch, where authors and community members came together to exchange ideas.

Modern Architecture in Chiang Mai book showcase with wine and decorations

Book Showcase

Featuring Modern Architecture in Chiang Mai: The 1960s and 1970s — a book that preserves the city’s unique architectural heritage.

Baan Landai Mae Rim interior hosting book launch and cultural dialogue

A Space for Dialogue

Baan Landai Mae Rim as a welcoming venue for cultural events, creative discussions, and community gatherings.