Penguin Books Australia

Photo credit: Earl Carter

Renowned chef David Thompson first went to Thailand by mistake: a holiday plan had to be changed at the last minute and he ended up in Bangkok, where he was seduced by the people, their culture and cuisine. Since that fateful trip more than 25 years ago, Thailand has become his second home. Working alongside venerable cooks who traced their skills back to the Thai royal palaces, he began to document the traditional recipes and culinary techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation - before they were eroded, altered and modernised beyond all recognition.

David Thompson is now widely recognised as an authority on Thai food and culture. Through his award-winning books, Thai Food and Thai Street Food, and his acclaimed restaurant in London (nahm was the first Thai restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star), he has increased the awareness and appreciation of authentic Thai cooking worldwide. He currently lives in London and Bangkok, where he will soon be opening a new restaurant.