Chef Songchai Puckdee

Born in Bangkok, Thailand Chef Songchai completed his culinary education at the San Bernardino Valley Community College where he received a degree in Associate of Art Business Management in 1989.
 
Chef Songchai started his career in Honolulu Hawaii as a Sauté and Pantry Cook at the Roy Park Bistro.  In 1996 he came to The Rio as a Sous Chef at Fiore Restaurant and has been helping expedite success in several outlets within the Rio as a Relief Room Chef. 

He is currently holding the role of Specialty Room Chef in the Carnival World Buffet.  

Songchai’s philosophy on cooking is “the most important elements of cooking are flavor and presentation”.

Awards and Accolades:

Carnival World Buffet- Rio 
     Voted Best Buffet in Las Vegas, 1996-2001 and 2004
Fiore Restaurant- Rio
      American Academy of Hospitality Service 1996
      Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 1996
      Host of James Beard Foundation Benefit Dinner
      Host of Dinner of the Century
Michael’s Restaurant, Colony Surf Hotel- Honolulu, Hawaii
      Appeared on the Life Styles of the Rich and Famous:
      World’s Most Romantic Restaurant, 1989-1992
 Zagat Survey:
       Best French Restaurant in Honolulu, 1989-1993
 Honolulu Magazine:
       Hale’aina Award, 1989-1992
 Aloha Magazine:
       Hawaii’s Best Restaurant 1989 and 1990