A northern Thai barbecue specialist inspired by the night markets of Chiang Mai launches in Borough Market next week. Khao Bird is the latest residency upstairs at the Globe Tavern, and is an offshoot of Brighton restaurant Lucky Khao.

Khao Bird will use produce from suppliers close to the market including Kernel Beer, Ice Cream Union and Bermondsey Street Honey, along with produce from Sussex, including from the Knepp Estate rewilding project.

Founder Mike Palmer says: “Khao started as a series of pop-ups in Brighton, inspired by our time studying and working in Thailand. Our philosophy is simple: to blend the bold flavours and techniques of Thailand with the best local ingredients from in and around Brighton and in 2018 we opened our first permanent restaurant in Brighton’s historic old post office. 

“Now, with this exciting opportunity in Borough Market, we’re diving into the unique cuisine of Chiang Mai. We’ve named the place Khao Bird as a nod to our love for the city’s famous barbecue chicken. The menu features Northern Thai classics, particularly the flavours that light up the city’s night markets, with some playful twists that reflect our journey from Brighton to Bangkok.”

Chef Luke Larsson has taken regular research trips to Thailand, where he seeks guidance from top local chefs. He says: “From my experience in Bangkok and northern Thailand, I’ve learnt the importance of respecting the authentic history of the food while also recognising that it’s about fun and bringing people together. 

“At Khao Bird, our dishes honour the people who taught me, those who frankly know better than I do, while offering a glimpse into the guilty pleasure of blending the different cuisines and influences that shaped me, whether it’s laab or slow-cooked curries with local meats.”

Khao Bird opens next Thursday, 19 September, with a soft-opening offer of 50% off food bills running until 4 October. Half of the seats are kept for walk-in customers.