It has been an exhilarating year for Nat Thaipun, the culinary sensation who claimed victory in MasterChef Australia 2024. Since her win, Thaipun has captivated food enthusiasts with her dynamic presence, hosting 22 dining pop-ups across Australia, Seoul, and Hong Kong. Her culinary journey is further chronicled in a YouTube docuseries exploring her travels in South Korea and Hobart, and her debut cookbook, Thai: Anywhere and Everywhere, is set to release in October. Despite her globe-trotting lifestyle, Thaipun still finds time to cook at Melbourne’s prestigious three-hatted restaurant, Vue de Monde.
Thaipun’s rise from an environmental science student and barista to a celebrated chef is a testament to her deep-rooted passion for cooking. Her parents owned the beloved Thai Hut restaurant in Sunbury for 30 years, until its closure in 2019. It was her transformative experience at The Zin House, a biodynamic farm and restaurant in Mudgee, that inspired her to join MasterChef, driven by a desire to explore organic practices and her culinary heritage in Thailand.
Nat Thaipun’s Favorite Dining Spots
Amid her busy schedule, Thaipun shared her favorite places to eat and drink in Australia and Thailand, as well as the comforting meals she enjoys preparing at home. Her recommendations reflect a deep appreciation for both local and international flavors.
Dining Out: Local Favorites
In her hometown of Melbourne, Thaipun’s go-to restaurant is Tom Toon in Richmond, where she delights in the whole crispy fried barramundi with papaya salad and sticky rice. She also praises Hotel Lombardo in Coburg for its underrated wood-fired Italian pizza and the Royal Oak Hotel in Fitzroy North for its classic Sunday roast.
For a nostalgic cafe experience, A1 Bakery in Brunswick tops her list. Known for its cheese pies and flatbreads, the bakery evokes memories of her parents’ restaurant. Thaipun also frequents Franklin’s Bar in Thornbury for their vodka-based dirty martini and Bar Liberty in Fitzroy for its hidden charm and wine selection.
Memorable Australian Dining Experiences
Thaipun’s culinary explorations extend beyond Melbourne. Dining at Brae, a three-hatted restaurant in Birregurra, left a lasting impression on her and her partner, both chefs. The restaurant’s commitment to hyperlocal and hyperseasonal ingredients resonated with her values. She also cherishes her visits to Vue de Monde, where she treated her brothers to a memorable degustation menu experience.
The Zin House in Mudgee holds a special place in her heart, as it was instrumental in her decision to pursue MasterChef. The restaurant’s dedication to sustainable farming and iconic Tinja lamb dish inspired her culinary journey.
Exploring Sydney’s Culinary Scene
Thaipun’s frequent visits to Sydney for work allow her to explore the city’s vibrant food scene. She often dines at Parami for its satisfying onigiri and Pina in Potts Point for its welcoming hospitality and delicious dishes like chili scrambled eggs and eggplant caponata.
Bar Copains is another favorite, where she enjoys a glass of sauvignon blanc or gewurztraminer alongside oysters, anchovies, and a nostalgic King George whiting sandwich. If Bar Copains is fully booked, she heads to its sister restaurant, Bessie’s, for seafood delights like whole fish and whipped cod roe.
Pubs and Coffee Spots
Thaipun’s love for pubs is evident in her frequent visits to The Dry Dock in Balmain, known for its classic bar vibes and quality food. As a former barista, she appreciates a good cup of coffee and often starts her day with a batch brew from ONA Coffee, originally from Canberra.
International Culinary Adventures
When it comes to international dining, Bangkok stands out as Thaipun’s favorite food city. Despite her initial aversion to the city’s noise, she now embraces its vibrant culinary scene. Her brother Nathan’s recommendations have led her to hidden gems like Pien Charcoal Stove Fried Noodles and Kajohn Authentic Southern Thai Cuisine.
For coffee, she frequents Uncle Tai Coffee and Roots at the Commons, appreciating their rich flavors and local charm.
Cooking at Home: Comfort and Creativity
At home, Thaipun enjoys preparing larb, a dish she can easily whip up with ingredients like roasted rice and chili powder. Her signature broccoli dish, charred and seasoned like a steak, often surprises her housemates. Her love for pomegranate, a gift from her mother, adds a sweet touch to her salads.
Thaipun’s culinary journey is a testament to her passion for food and her dedication to exploring diverse flavors. Her favorite dining spots reflect her appreciation for quality ingredients, sustainability, and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones.
