Our story

Rooted in tradition

From a family kitchen in Chiang Mai to your table — every dish carries the soul of Thailand.

Discover our journey
Since 1998

From humble roots

Saffron Lotus was born from a dream — to share the authentic flavours of northern Thailand with the world. What began as a small street stall in Chiang Mai has grown into a beloved sanctuary of taste.

1998
Grandma Mali opens a small curry stall in the old city of Chiang Mai, using recipes passed down for generations.
2005
The family opens their first proper restaurant, ‘Saffron Lotus’, named after the sacred flower and the golden spice.
2012
Expansion to Bangkok, bringing northern Thai cuisine to a wider audience while staying true to its roots.
2020
Saffron Lotus goes international, opening its first location in the heart of London’s culinary scene.
Meet the family

Our team

Chef Mali

Mali Srisawat

Founder & head chef

Grandma Mali’s hands still shape every curry paste. Her intuition is the heart of our kitchen.

Anong

Anong Srisawat

Managing director

Daughter of Mali, Anong brings modern vision while honouring tradition. She leads with warmth.

Somchai

Somchai Rattana

Master fermenter

Somchai crafts our signature fish sauces and pickles, aged in clay pots for months.

Our beliefs

Philosophy

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Honest ingredients

We source directly from small farms in Thailand. No shortcuts, no artificial flavour.

🔥

Fire & patience

Slow cooking over charcoal, pounding spices by hand — some things cannot be rushed.

🤝

Community

Every meal is an invitation to gather, share, and feel at home. We feed the soul.

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Balance

Sour, sweet, salty, spicy — harmony in every bite. The Thai way.

Moments

Inside Saffron Lotus