The creators of the vibrant Brazilian-Japanese restaurant Uma Nota Manila are offering an exclusive preview of their newest venture, Sabai, a modern and soulful Thai restaurant. For one night only, on June 10, 2025, Uma Nota Manila will transform its kitchen to serve the regional and authentic menu of Sabai, giving diners a first glimpse into what is poised to be one of the city’s most anticipated culinary openings.
Sabai is the first original concept from the dynamic team of Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham. Set to officially open its doors in Shangri-La The Fort, BGC, in early July 2025, Sabai aims to elevate the city’s dining landscape with an unparalleled Thai experience rooted in deep cultural respect, honest flavors, and warm hospitality. The name “Sabai” (สบาย) translates to “relaxed” in Thai, while also resonating with the Tagalog word “Sabay,” meaning “together”—perfectly capturing the restaurant’s goal to be a sophisticated yet comfortable space for connection.
Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Assavadathkamjorn Puwadol (or “Chef Tob”), a native of Southern Thailand whose impressive pedigree includes experience in world-renowned, Michelin-starred establishments such as Le Normandie by Alain Roux, Pru, and the two-Michelin-starred Sühring in Bangkok. This exclusive takeover at Uma Nota Manila will serve as the first introduction of Chef Tob’s culinary philosophy to the city.
The preview menu on June 10 will offer a tangible glimpse into Sabai’s culinary DNA, showcasing a vibrant exploration of Thailand’s regional heritage. Each dish is crafted with authentic spices imported directly from Thailand and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, spotlighting the bold expression and refined techniques that will define the Sabai experience. Guests will be treated to KHAO KREAB CREAM MUN PU (Thai crispy rice pancake topped with a rich crab fat salad. Crunchy, creamy, and unapologetically indulgent), PLA KUNG YANG (Tiger prawns, flame-kissed and tossed with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili. Bright, smoky, and full of zing), TOM SAP PLA KHAO (a spicy-sour soup with grouper and Thai herbs. Bold, comforting, and just the right amount of heat) for starters, KANG PANANG NUEA NONG LAI (stewed beef silver shank in a rich panang curry. Deep, velvety, and made for slow bites), KHAI LOOK KHUEAY (Fried boiled egg with sweet tamarind sauce — crispy outside, jammy inside, and totally addictive), KUNG PAD PRIK KLUEA (Prawn stir-fried with garlic, chili, and salt. Straight from the wok with serious flavor), KHAO SUAY (steamed jasmine rice — because no Thai meal is complete without it) for mains, and ICE CREAM KHAI KANG (Coconut ice cream with golden thread egg. Sweet, cold, and just a little playful — the perfect finish) for dessert.
“This preview is a unique opportunity to share a taste of what’s to come. We are incredibly proud to partner with Chef Tob, whose exceptional talent will showcase authentic Thai cuisine like never before. Sabai captures our vision for a relaxed yet elevated space where guests can connect over extraordinary food and genuine hospitality,” shared partners Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham.
Be the First to Know
To receive early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes updates, and official opening details for Sabai, all guests and media are encouraged to sign up for the official newsletter at www.eatsabai.com.
Event Details:
- What: Sabai Menu Preview at Uma Nota Manila
- When: June 10, 2025
- Where: Uma Nota Manila, Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Manila
- Details: For one night, Uma Nota Manila will exclusively serve a special menu curated by Chef Tob, offering the first taste of Sabai’s cuisine.
About Sabai: Sabai is an authentic, elevated Thai restaurant located in Shangri-La The Fort, BGC, Manila. Helmed by Head Chef Puwadol Assavadathkamjorn (Chef Tob) and developed by the creators of Uma Nota Manila, Alex Offe and Michael J. Needham, Sabai offers a regional journey through Thai cuisine, crafted with honesty and soul. Designed by LC Studio, the restaurant features two main dining areas and three private rooms (two with karaoke), blending traditional Thai design with modern comfort. Sabai embodies both the Thai meaning of comfort and the Tagalog meaning of together—a space for food, culture, and connection.
