Langbaan & Phuket Cafe

Until now, Langbaan has existed as an in-the-know-secret behind its sister restaurant, Paadee. Chef and owner, Earl Ninsom, partnered with Eric Nelson to expand on the concept and pair the tasting-menu restaurant with a more casual daytime spot. Out of this, Phuket Cafe was born. Half ode to the colorful streets of Old Phuket Town, half lush hidden oasis, the new location offers a Thai dining experience unlike any other in the city.

One part nostalgic, one part surreal — when you come across Phuket Cafe, you feel instantly transported to another place, as if you’re on a train headed straight to Phuket. Outdoor diners may be seated at a “ticket counter” or in the streetside “train car that our team concepted and designed” The visual identity references the tactile experience of Thai travel, taking cues from paper tickets. We kept the elements of surprise that make Langbaan unique—the semi-hidden location, rotating menu, and arresting flavors—and translated that into a lush oasis behind Phuket’s bright exterior. Wood screens, deeper greens, and a thicket of plants create a darker, cozier feel. Hand-hewn tiles and patinaed surfaces provide a textural, time-worn quality. 

Roles:
Creative Direction, Brand Strategy, Interior Design, Art Story, Project Management, CA

Collaborators:Katherine Garber, Interiors
Ellen Wilde, CD & Design


Press:

2024 James Beard Oustanding Restaurant
Bloomberg
New York Times
Sunset Magazine
Portland Monthly
Portland Monthly






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