Thai Lantern Festival Celebration

20th & 21st November 2026

In an exclusive collaboration, PAD’s Head Chef Larkin Cen (MasterChef finalist 2013 and representative for Wales in the Great British Menu 2022 & 2024) joins forces with Sam Kaeokon (MasterChef finalist 2025), to guide you into a world of vibrant tradition and culinary artistry as we honour Yi Peng – Thailand’s iconic floating lantern festival. 

Immerse yourself in an evening where every detail tells a story – where each dish is elegantly crafted to delicately balance traditional Thai flavours with contemporary culinary flair, bringing delight and joy to every serving. 

Set Menu
£75 per adult

Meet the Chef: Sam Kaeokon

Sam Kaeokon captured the attention of food lovers across the nation as a standout finalist on MasterChef UK 2025. Celebrated for his vibrant dishes, technical skill, and heartfelt storytelling through food, Sam impressed judges with cooking that honoured his Thai roots while embracing modern influences and creative flair.

Born and raised in Thailand, Sam’s love of cooking began at an early age, learning traditional techniques and family recipes alongside his mother and grandmother. Growing up, food was at the heart of family life, shaping his appreciation for authentic Thai flavours and inspiring a lifelong passion for creating memorable dining experiences.

Now living in the UK, Sam continues to share his culinary heritage through dishes that combine the bold, aromatic flavours of Thailand with subtle Western influences gathered from his travels and experiences. His cooking celebrates the balance of tradition and innovation, showcasing the ingredients and techniques that have defined his journey.

Passionate about bringing people together through food, Sam believes every meal should tell a story. His MasterChef journey reinforced his commitment to sharing the flavours of Thailand with a wider audience, and he continues to inspire diners with his warmth, creativity, and dedication to authentic, flavour-driven cuisine

Sam Kaeokon Masterchef

Meet the Chef: Larkin Cen

You likely know Larkin Cen as the Head Chef at our AA Rosette awarded restaurant PAD, as the MasterChef Finalist 2013 and the contestant on the Great British Menu 2022 and 2024, or maybe you have visited his XO Eats stall in Bristol.

Larkin’s love of cooking stems all the way back to his parents Chinese takeaway in Cardiff, with his earliest food memory being his grandfather’s roast pork belly and crackling Cantonese-style. After four years working as a solicitor, Larkin finally decided fulfil his life-long dream of becoming a chef when he boldly entered and reached the final of the MasterChef competition in 2013.

Larkin Cen

Feast of Flavours

Celebrate a truly unique dining experience with an equally distinctive menu. Begin with starters brimming with signature Thai tastes like Langoustine Tom Yum Soup or Nam Tok BBQ Steak – Sam’s own Masterchef 2025 creation. 

Then share a vibrant spread of dishes that honour Eastern culinary tradition including Malaysian Kang Som Curry, slow cooked Khao Soi Chicken or Thailand’s most famous dish – Chicken & Prawn Pad Thai.

Round off your meal with some iconic Mango sticky rice or a delicate Coconut Panna Cotta for a sweet finale to a truly unforgettable evening. 

Book online now and commemorate this special Thai festival in style. 

PAD Menu

Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. £20 non-refundable deposit per person required at the time of booking.