Penang’s Sood By Chef Ton Named A Must-Book Restaurant For 2025

By Lara Kramer  •  10 Mar 2025 in Features

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Penang’s food scene has long been synonymous with legendary street eats, but now it’s making waves on the global fine dining stage.

Sood, the latest venture by acclaimed Thai chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, has been named one of the “10 Restaurants to Book in 2025” by the prestigious World’s 50 Best Stories.

The recognition places Penang alongside some of the world’s top culinary destinations, proving that the island offers far more than just its famous hawker fare.

Sood is one of only two Asian restaurants to make the coveted list, sharing the spotlight with Hong Kong’s Marmo Bistro.

This recognition signals a shift in how Penang is perceived in the global culinary landscape—moving beyond its street food heritage and establishing itself as a destination for innovative, world-class dining.

For Chef Ton, a celebrated name in Asia’s gastronomic circles, Sood represents his first foray into Malaysia’s food scene. Nestled within a 150-year-old heritage mansion in George Town, the restaurant blends modern Thai flavours with the cultural and historical richness of Penang.

The result? A dining experience that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in the spirit of the city.

“This recognition isn’t just about Sood; it’s a celebration of Penang as a culinary destination,” said Chef Ton. “The city’s culture, heritage, and people have inspired us to create something truly unique here.”

Sood offers more than just an elevated dining experience—it’s a multifaceted space that redefines how food and entertainment intertwine:

• Ground Floor Dining: A refined space where modern Thai cuisine meets Penang’s culinary influences, delivering an intimate and elevated gastronomic experience.
• SO-OD Bar (Upper Floor): A lively venue featuring daily live bands and DJs, seamlessly blending music, culture, and nightlife.

Being featured among the “10 Restaurants to Book in 2025” is a tribute to Penang’s evolving food scene. As the city continues to attract world-class culinary talent, its reputation as an international dining hotspot grows stronger.

Sood’s inclusion in the prestigious list places it among an elite lineup of global restaurants, including:

1. Marmo Bistro, Hong Kong
2. Sood by Chef Ton, Penang
3. Gaia, Miami
4. Mareida, London
5. The Sundays, Hamilton Island by Josh Niland
6. Bar Valette, London
7. Noraneko, Caracas
8. Damian, Lima
9. Stelma, Quito
10. Cypsèle, Paris

For those eager to experience one of the most talked-about restaurants of the year, reservations at Sood are highly recommended.

For bookings, visit: www.soodsogood.com

Penang’s food scene is no longer just about street eats—it’s a full-course revolution, and the world is finally taking notice. Stay tuned for more on JUICE!