Chef Jimmy Ophorst, Executive Chef of PRU in Phuket, has been honoured with the prestigious Best Dutch Chef Abroad award by Gault & Millau. This accolade is a major achievement, as Ophorst is the only chef in Thailand (and likely the wider region) to receive this recognition.

The Gault & Millau Awards are among the most esteemed in the culinary world, with past winners including Michelin-starred chefs from renowned establishments like BOCA, Row on 45, and Atlantis Dubai.

A Mark Of Culinary Excellence

Founded in 1972, Gault & Millau is a prestigious French restaurant guide known for its rigorous and independent evaluations. Receiving an award from Gault & Millau signifies a chef’s exceptional skill and commitment to the culinary craft.

Reflecting on his award, the newly-crowned Best Dutch Chef Abroad shared: “Since leaving the Netherlands at 22, I’ve focused less on awards. Building a home in Phuket away from the spotlight makes this recognition even more humbling. Few people in the Netherlands or Europe know me or PRU, so receiving this honour from Gault & Millau is truly inspiring.”

A Michelin-Starred Gem

PRU, Chef Ophorst’s culinary haven in Phuket, is the only restaurant in the region to hold both a One MICHELIN Star and the MICHELIN Green Star—a prestigious dual honour that reflects its exceptional food and commitment to sustainability.

In addition, PRU was recently named one of Thailand’s best restaurants in the Travel+Leisure Tastemakers 2024 list, cementing its status as a must-visit dining destination. Looking ahead to 2025, Chef Ophorst remains focused on stability and fine-tuning the details at PRU. He shared: “Our goal is to continue growing, refining every aspect of PRU, and making Phuket a global culinary destination.”

Community-To-Fork Philosophy

PRU’s dining experience is built around its community-to-fork philosophy, emphasizing local ingredients and sustainability. The restaurant’s open theatre kitchen allows diners to witness the creative process as rare Thai ingredients transform into exquisite dishes.

With its breath-taking views and a dedicated team, PRU offers an immersive dining experience that highlights Thailand’s finest produce, making it a true celebration of Thai flavours. Chef Ophorst’s commitment to using local goods and championing sustainability ensures a dining experience that not only excites the senses but also supports local communities.