Founded by Chef Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon in 2019, Kalaya has become a beacon of authentic Thai cuisine in Philadelphia. Originally from Southern Thailand, Chef Nok brings her deep connection to her homeland’s culinary traditions into every dish.

After partnering with Defined Hospitality, Chef Nok closed the doors to her 32-seat operation in South Philly’s Bella Vista and reopened in Fishtown in 2022 to a 145-seat dining room, accentuated with an open kitchen, skylights, and live palm trees. Shortly after opening the new Kalaya, Chef Nok won the 2023 James Beard Award for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic. 

Today, Kalaya is nationally renowned for its bold flavors and shareable plates, including signature dishes like Khao Yum and Gaeng Tay Po. The restaurant’s lively ambiance encourages communal dining, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Thailand in a chic-modern space.

Kalaya’s brand continues to receive national acclaim and celebration, with Chef Nok releasing her cookbook Kalaya’s Southern Thai Kitchen and a feature in Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Legends in November 2024.