For the first time in the history of the World Culinary Awards, a Canadian restaurant has just been named the best in North America.
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine, located in Richmond, B.C., just received the award, marking a significant milestone in Canada’s restaurant scene. For context, previous North American title holders include the famous French Laundry, Le Bernardin, and Atelier Crenn.
This isn’t the first time that Baan Lao has been recognized at the World Culinary Awards, as it has been named the best restaurant in Canada multiple times — this year marking the third time it has received the best in Canada distinction.
The restaurant is led by Executive Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng, who is a former nurse and cancer researcher and owns Baan Lao with her partner, John Phanthoupheng.
Japanese Tiger Prawn with Lobster Tom Yum (Luis Valdizon)
“I wanted to show people that Thai food is more than just street food and introduce them to the beauty of Royal Thai cuisine, which is an important part of our culture,” said Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng, who accepted the award in Montego Bay, Jamaica. “I am very grateful to our team and everyone who has supported us. This award encourages us to keep improving.”
“Our goal was to become the best Thai restaurant in North America,” added John Phanthoupheng. “To be named the best restaurant overall is immensely gratifying. We hope it brings greater appreciation for the depth and refinement of Thai cuisine.”
Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng (Nora Hamade)
The restaurant was selected through a weighted voting system that included 22 Canadian and 18 U.S. nominees.
Baan Lao is a 20-seat restaurant set on the waterfront in the historic fishing village of Steveston, just south of Vancouver. Opened in 2021, the restaurant is known for its Royal Thai tasting menus and white-glove service.
In May, the duo also opened MaKaam at Vancouver’s recently opened Time Out Market, offering healthy, modern takes on casual Thai classics.
The couple are also preparing to open two new concepts in Vancouver in Summer 2027, the first of which is Baan Baan, Thai Farmer’s Table and Bar, which will specialize in Isaan cuisine. Expect a late-night gathering place with a showpiece bar, private dining room, and an expansive patio serving charcoal-grilled seafood and meats with spicy fermented flavours.
The second concept is titled Le KaNom Thai Desserts and Caffe, which will offer gluten-free and dairy-free Thai sweets during the day. Both Baan Baan and Le KaNom will be located on Granville Island.
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine
Address: 4100 Bayview St., Richmond