Chang Thai in Makati: Chef Aof Suwannalert’s Thai Culinary Masterpiece in Makati
Authentic Thai cuisine moves closer to Manila through sumptuous Thai dishes served by none other than Chef Aof Suwannalert, the Thai female chef behind Chang Thai in Legazpi Village, Makati City!
IMAGE from Chang Thai
Tucked within the lively district of Legazpi Village in Makati is a Chang Thai that tells a story far richer than its unassuming appearance suggests. Behind its well-loved dishes is Chef Aof Suwannalert—a culinary artisan whose journey spans family kitchens in Thailand to esteemed diplomatic events in Manila.
Chef Aof hails from Chiang Mai, Thailand, and comes from a proud lineage of cooks. Her earliest memories are rooted in the kitchen, learning the art of Thai cooking from her grandmother.
Later, while growing up in Korat province, she helped her mother and aunts at their family-run restaurant, further honing her craft and deepening her appreciation for traditional flavors.
Chef Aof Suwannalert / Image from Chang Thai
Her formal culinary journey began under the mentorship of Chef Sombat Prongthong, who would go on to become the executive chef of the renowned Blue Elephant Phuket. Armed with traditional wisdom and professional experience, Chef Aof moved to the Philippines in 2013.
She was soon invited by Chef Sau Del Rosario of SawSaw and Café Fleur to be part of his team, where Chef Aof worked as a consultant and chef.
It was during this time that a pivotal opportunity came her way. Encouraged by the then Thai Ambassador to the Philippines, Chef Aof was urged to showcase authentic Thai cuisine to the Filipino public.
This led to the birth of Chang Thai, a humble food stall at the Legazpi Sunday Market, which quickly became a weekend favorite. For over eight years, Chang Thai has introduced countless locals and tourists alike to the rich, balanced flavors of Thailand.
Pad Thai with Prawns (Php 380) / IMAGE from Chang Thai
Her growing reputation also earned her the trust of the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila, where she continues to be invited to cook and cater for embassy events and VIP guests—an honor that reflects both her skill and authenticity.
Now operating a full-fledged restaurant on Benavidez Street, Chef Aof continues to serve heartfelt dishes in a relaxed, casual setting. Signature favorites include the Pad Thai with Prawns, wrapped in layers of flavor; the savory Gaprao Moo Sab, a spicy basil pork dish; and the refreshing Pomelo Salad, which brings a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Gaprao Moo Sab (Php 350) / IMAGE from Chang Thai
Pomelo Salad (Php 365) / IMAGE from Chang Thai
With a garden up front that gives contrast to its simple, minimalist interiors, Chang Thai creates a cool and tranquil atmosphere that is a great pair to great Thai cuisine.
IMAGE from Chang Thai
Whether you’re visiting for a weekday lunch or a weekend dinner, this modest eatery offers more than just a meal—it offers a taste of Chef Aof’s journey, rooted in family, tradition, and a lifelong love for Thai cuisine.
