Imagine being in your 80s and still cooking up a storm, not just for your family, but at a restaurant that has snagged seven Michelin stars. Sounds like the plot of an epic culinary saga, right? Well, welcome to the vibrant world of Supinya “Jay Fai” Junsuta, the legendary chef from Bangkok who has recently had to quash rumors about the alleged closure of her much-celebrated eatery.
Jay Fai, renowned not only for her culinary prowess but also for her signature goggles and fiery spirit, recently spoke to ThaiNews to clarify a miscommunication that set the culinary world buzzing. Some crafty rumors hinted at her hanging up her apron next year. But, as it turns out, these were as unreliable as a soufflé in a hailstorm.
It seems that the hearsay started innocently enough when a curious reporter asked if retirement was twinkling on her horizon, considering her impressive age. Jay Fai, sharp as a knife’s edge, explained with a chuckle, “I merely mentioned I had a project in mind, and before I knew it, the retirement rumors started cooking up.” Setting the record straight, she declared with gusto, “I am not done yet. Next year, and likely many seasons thereafter, I plan to keep my restaurant sizzling. Retirement isn’t in the recipe just yet.”
The spry octogenarian, who could likely juggle spatulas in her sleep, revealed she’s still brimming with energy and determination. Despite her age, Jay Fai is as fit as a perfectly browned culinary masterpiece, easily standing at her sizzling woks for a staggering 15 hours a day when her restaurant is open. Her Michelin-starred establishment, located on Mahachai Road in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district, continues to operate four days a week, from Wednesday to Saturday—much to the delight of her patrons who travel from far and wide.
The swirling rumors of Jay Fai’s impending retirement even captured the attention of Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In response to the fantastical chatter, the Prime Minister expressed a desire to dine at the eatery while it still graced Bangkok’s culinary map. Jay Fai, always the gracious host, exclaimed she would be deeply honored to serve the nation’s leader in her humble but acclaimed establishment.
If you’re now drooling at the thought of her signature crab omelette, which has achieved a legendary status akin to a culinary holy grail, know that Jay Fai has no intention of hanging up her whisk—or her goggles—anytime soon. Her commitment to her craft, along with the international acclaim that accompanies it, seems bound to keep her steaming, sautéing, and sizzling her way across kitchens worldwide.
So, for anyone who treasures the vibrant explosion of flavors that Jay Fai conjures up, rest easy. The tales of her restaurant’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. It appears that, much like her dishes, Jay Fai’s story is far from over, promising to spice up the culinary scene for many more delightful years to come.
It’s fantastic that Jay Fai is still going strong at her age. Truly an inspiration!
Absolutely! I just hope she takes care of her health too. We need her around as long as possible.
She probably has an army of apprentices, but nobody can match the original.
Seven Michelin stars? Seems a bit exaggerated for street food, don’t you think?
It’s seven years running with one star each year, actually. It’s about consistent quality, not quantity.
Her crab omelette is out of this world, worthy of more than just one star!
Isn’t this all hype? Does anyone actually verify such retirement rumors?
It’s likely just gossip. But, the media love to stir these stories up, right?
True, but wouldn’t it be boring without a little drama? Keeps the scene lively!
Verification or not, it’s great publicity for her restaurant either way!
I hope she gets to serve the Prime Minister. Wouldn’t that be something?
I can only imagine the pressure…Serving a leader would be both a challenge and honor!
Jay Fai could probably cook under any kind of pressure. She’s the real deal.
Retirement should be her choice, not pressured by the media.
Exactly, she should go out on her own terms. More power to her.
The legacy of Jay Fai is unstoppable. Maybe they’ll make a movie about her life!
I’d totally watch that! Her life story is so inspiring and unique.
Could be a great documentary too. I’d love to see her in action behind the scenes!
I’ve tried that crab omelette. Worth every single penny!
Totally agree! It’s an experience on its own, isn’t it?
Maybe, if you can ignore the long wait times!
Jay Fai need not worry. Until her apron is hung, the crowds will keep flocking.
Until the next ‘big thing’ pops up. Culinary trends change so fast these days!
Who else is planning a trip to Bangkok just for this culinary legend?
I am! Her restaurant is on my travel bucket list now.
Hats off to her for still working those long hours. I couldn’t do it!
Jay Fai embodies passion for one’s craft; a true lifelong learner.
She’s living proof that dedication surpasses age barriers.
This woman is unstoppable, truly setting the bar high for the younger chefs.
Younger chefs could learn a lot from her resilience and work ethic.
Agreed! They should respect the veterans, not just new trends.
It’d be tragic if such skills weren’t passed down. I hope she has an apprentice.
I bet she does. But can anyone really replicate her magic?
Skills can be taught, but her passion is one-of-a-kind!