Phuket, Thailand — The Smokaccia Laboratory has achieved a landmark moment for Thailand’s culinary scene, becoming the first restaurant in the country to receive the highest distinction of 5 Radishes from We’re Smart Green World, the world’s leading authority on vegetable-focused and sustainable fine dining.

The recognition places the Phuket-based restaurant among a rare global group of establishments that have reached the maximum rating for plant-forward cuisine, sustainability, and culinary innovation — a distinction that often takes restaurants many years to achieve, if at all.

A Defining Year of Global Recognition

Led by Chef Luca Mascolo and co-founded with Brigitta Houkamp, The Smokaccia Laboratory has emerged as one of Thailand’s fastest-rising fine-dining destinations, earning an exceptional number of international accolades over the past year.

Recent recognitions include:

  • 5 Radishes – Highest Honour (We’re Smart Green World, London)
  • Top 3 Best Restaurants in Phuket & Southern Thailand (Top25 Restaurants)
  • Alcohol-Free Pairing of the Year (Thailand’s Favourite Restaurants)
  • Top 25 Best Restaurants in Thailand (Thailand’s Favourite Restaurants)
  • Best Innovative Cuisine – Southeast Asia Winner (World Luxury Restaurant Awards)
  • Best Innovative Dining Concept – Thailand Winner (World Luxury Restaurant Awards)
  • Best Molecular Cuisine – Global Winner (World Luxury Restaurant Awards)

The 5 Radishes distinction places The Smokaccia Laboratory alongside globally renowned restaurants such as Eleven Madison Park and The French Laundry in the United States, and Noma and Geranium in Denmark.

Recognition Rooted in Sustainability and Innovation

The We’re Smart Green World awards are determined through anonymous global inspectors and rigorous international criteria, with a strong focus on vegetable-driven cuisine, sustainability, and responsible sourcing.

Chef Luca Mascolo was formally presented with the official 5 Radishes plaque and SMART Chef’s Jacket at the London awards ceremony, marking a defining moment for both the restaurant and Thailand’s fine-dining landscape.

Central to this achievement is Chef Luca’s highly developed 9- and 18-course tasting menus, which include vegetarian and fully vegan options alongside meat and fish menus. The plant-based offerings are recognised among the most elaborate and flavour-forward vegetable-driven menus globally, while maintaining a strict zero-waste philosophy and the ability to accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements.

A Dining Experience Designed to Stay with You

Beyond the cuisine, Brigitta Houkamp shapes the restaurant’s guest experience and storytelling, crafting a space that feels both refined and deeply personal. The restaurant blends the atmosphere of an elegant home with the curiosity and precision of a culinary laboratory — a balance that has become a defining signature of The Smokaccia Laboratory.

The experience is supported by a dedicated team, including two sommeliers overseeing refined wine pairings, as well as a laboratory-inspired, house-made non-alcoholic pairing programme, recently honoured as Alcohol-Free Pairing of the Year in Bangkok.

Guests begin their evening in a welcome lounge with a champagne or non-alcoholic aperitif before moving to either the main dining room or the open kitchen chef’s counter. From there, the journey unfolds through imaginative courses that transform single ingredients into multiple textures and sensations — each dish designed to tell a story and evoke a sense of wonder.

From Bread Concept to Fine-Dining Destination

The Smokaccia Laboratory first opened over four years ago with a bread-focused concept built around “Smokaccia,” a newly invented sourdough created by Chef Luca Mascolo — an innovation that earned him a Culinary Scientist Award.
(Note: Smokaccia is not related to focaccia and is a completely distinct creation.)

Two years later, the restaurant evolved into a high-level fine-dining destination, with the clear intention of creating an experience where every detail contributes to an exceptional evening — from the first welcome to the final course.

About The Smokaccia Laboratory

With its focus on creativity, precision, sustainability, and thoughtful storytelling, The Smokaccia Laboratory offers an experience guests carry with them long after the evening ends. Whether visiting for a celebration, a moment of discovery, or simply an extraordinary meal, each visit leaves a lasting impression.