Dining for a Cause: Novotel Sihanoukville Hosts International Culinary Leaders for ‘Chef Outta Water’ Gala

On Friday, 31 July 2026, the Independence Ballroom at Novotel Sihanoukville Holiday Resort will transform into a stage for world-class gastronomy and cultural celebration. In an extraordinary partnership with global culinary initiative Chef Outta Water, the resort is hosting an exclusive six-course fundraising dinner dedicated to empowering the next generation of Cambodian hospitality professionals.

All proceeds from the evening and its feature auction will benefit SPOONS Cambodia, a renowned Siem Reap-based culinary training organization that has guided over 600 young Cambodians into rewarding hospitality careers.

A Symphony of Global Flavors and Khmer Heritage

The “Chef Outta Water” dinner brings together five distinct culinary talents from around the world to craft a narrative-driven menu celebrating coastal ingredients and regional traditions:

  • Chris Holen (USA): Co-founder of Chef Outta Water, James Beard House featured chef, and veteran of international culinary exchanges across 20 countries.
  • Judyta Slupnicki (Australia): Founder of SheChef with two decades of global experience focused on sustainable, local produce.
  • Vu Tran (Vietnam): Medical nutrition chef and founder of Ho Chi Minh City’s Bếp Kể Chuyện, bringing storytelling and tradition to the plate.
  • Suban Luon (Cambodia): Executive Chef at Novotel Sihanoukville, combining international experience serving global leaders with inventive Khmer flavors.
  • Mengly Mork (Cambodia): A pioneer of modern Khmer gastronomy focused on indigenous ingredients, fermentation, and zero-waste dining.

Throughout the meal, guests will be immersed in authentic Cambodian heritage with live performances of traditional Khmer music and dance.

Beyond the plate, the initiative serves as an educational bridge. Supported by Australian Volunteers, the visiting chefs will engage directly with SPOONS students and alumni, offering mentorship, professional feedback, and career development opportunities.

Event Details & Reservations

Guests are invited to participate in an evening that pairs high-end gastronomy with meaningful community impact. A live auction featuring prizes donated by hospitality leaders will offer further opportunities to support SPOONS’ mission.

  • Date: Friday, 31 July 2026
  • Schedule: Cocktails from 5:45 PM | Dinner served at 6:30 PM
  • Location: Independence Ballroom, Novotel Sihanoukville Holiday Resort
  • Price: USD 65++ per person

Due to limited capacity, advance reservations are required.

To reserve your table:

📧 Email: [email protected]

📞 Phone: +855 81 982 999

💬 Telegram: t.me/NovotelSHK