Renowned Spanish chef Ángel León, widely celebrated as El Chef del Mar, will make his Asian debut this December, bringing his pioneering marine gastronomy to LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Titled “Stars of the Sea: A World-Class Culinary Journey,” the exclusive event will take place on December 29, 2025, from 6:00pm to 9:30pm. Open to the public with limited seats available by confirmed registration, the evening promises a rare opportunity to experience the visionary cuisine of one of the world’s most influential chefs.

Celebrated Cuisine

Chef León’s revolutionary work at his restaurant Aponiente in Cádiz, Spain has earned three Michelin Stars along with a Michelin Green Star, recognising his commitment to sustainability and innovation. His research-driven approach explores alternative marine ingredients, cultivating ocean plants and transforming overlooked sea products into refined gastronomy, while reducing reliance on fragile marine ecosystems.

Organised by Meliá Hotels International, the event will present a curated tasting journey featuring three signature dishes by Chef León, preceded by three Spanish tapas by LUZ chef de cuisine Juan Ignacio “Nacho” García Racionero. Each chef will introduce their dishes personally, offering diners an immersive storytelling experience that highlights technique, creativity, and environmental responsibility.

Extended Offering

Following the one-night-only event, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar will offer Chef León’s iconic Plankton Rice for a limited time from December 30, 2025 to January 31, 2026. One of the most innovative dishes in contemporary gastronomy, Plankton Rice is infused with pure marine phytoplankton, the microscopic algae at the base of the ocean’s food chain.

The dish is distinguished by its vivid emerald colour and aroma reminiscent of the open sea, while delivering high nutritional value including protein, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids.

After years of research, Chef León became the first chef in the world authorised to use 100% natural, food-grade phytoplankton in cuisine. Prepared using the same premium-grade phytoplankton served at Aponiente, Plankton Rice will be offered daily in limited quantities.

Set against panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar provides a striking backdrop for this landmark culinary experience that bridges gastronomy, science, and sustainability.