Taste of tradition and transformation

In a bustling corner of Mumbai, a quiet yet compelling culinary revolution is slowly brewing. At the helm is Chef Seefah Ketchaiyo, a name synonymous with authenticity and innovation in the world of Thai and Japanese cuisines. Co-founder and head chef of the eponymous restaurant, Chef Seefah’s journey is one of artistry, heritage and fearless experimentation.

What sets Chef Seefah apart is her ability to channel personal memories into her dishes. “The memories that inspire my cooking are rooted in my childhood,” she shares, adding, “My mother’s home-cooked meals were a cornerstone of our family’s comfort. That warmth and simplicity are what I bring to my dishes today.”

Her restaurant, nestled in the heart of Mumbai, is more than just a dining space – it’s a canvas for her memories and creativity. Guests savour every bite, tasting not just the ingredients but the stories behind them.

A dual-cuisine vision

Chef Seefah’s mastery of blending Thai and Japanese flavours is unparalleled, a feat that requires both precision and intuition. For her, the journey begins with mastering the fundamentals. “For young chefs, I would recommend building a strong foundation first. Once you’ve grasped the basics, experimenting becomes more meaningful and allows you to innovate while respecting tradition,” she advises. This philosophy is evident in the restaurant’s menu, which seamlessly melds the bold, aromatic notes of Thai cuisine with the subtle umami of Japanese dishes. From perfectly balanced Pad Krapow to meticulously crafted sushi, her offerings celebrate the soul of both cuisines.

Authenticity in every bite

What makes Seefah a haven for food connoisseurs is the chef’s unwavering commitment to authenticity. “Great food starts with great ingredients,” she asserts. Whether it’s importing fish from Japan or sourcing spices directly from Thailand, her meticulous approach ensures each dish remains true to its roots. “When local ingredients don’t match the standards, I don’t hesitate to travel to source them myself,” she shares with a smile.

Breaking stereotypes, dish by dish

For many Indian diners, Thai and Japanese cuisines are confined to green curries and sushi rolls. Chef Seefah is on a mission to change that narrative. “There’s so much more to these cuisines than the popular dishes,” she explains. By introducing diners to lesser-known yet authentic specialties, she broadens their understanding and appreciation of these rich culinary traditions.

The freedom to create

One of Chef Seefah’s proudest achievements is the independence her restaurant affords her as both chef and entrepreneur. “Owning my restaurant has given me the freedom to experiment without the constraints of policies. This autonomy has allowed me to bring my vision to life and offer unique dishes that reflect my personal journey,” she shares.

A platform for empowerment

Chef Seefah’s journey took a celebratory turn with her participation in the Power Play initiative by Masters of Marriott Bonvoy and Culinary Culture. “It’s been a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with talented women chefs and showcase the diversity of culinary talent,” she says. For her, the initiative is not just about showcasing skills but about finding balance leveraging her strengths to maintain authenticity while embracing creativity.

Beyond the plate

Chef Seefah’s story is not just about food, it’s about connection, culture and courage. Each dish served at her restaurant tells a tale of heritage and innovation, a delicate balance she has mastered with grace. Whether you’re a fan of soulful curries or precision-crafted sashimi, dining at Seefah is an invitation to savour the best of both worlds.

In her words, “Cooking is not just about following recipes. It’s about sharing memories, creating comfort and building connections. That’s what I strive to do every day.”