Chef Chanthy Yen, winner of Top Chef Canada 2024, is marking Asian Heritage Month by sharing a selection of modern Cambodian recipes and preparing for a new project that ties cuisine, storytelling, and travel. Known for his bold interpretations of Southeast Asian dishes, Chanthy continues to highlight the complexity and depth of Cambodian food in both Canadian kitchens and international settings.
Chanthy’s latest collaboration with Emerald Cruises will take place in October 2026, when he will host a 7-night Mekong River cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia. The journey will include guided culinary experiences, personal storytelling, and dishes rooted in his heritage. Guests will have the opportunity to sample a curated menu that reflects the river’s cultural legacy while exploring local markets and landscapes along the route.
The cruise is designed as an immersive experience, blending regional exploration with Cambodian flavours presented through Chanthy’s perspective. While the full itinerary and menu will be revealed closer to the sailing date, some of the dishes he’s previewing for Asian Heritage Month offer a look at what’s to come: expect ingredients tied to family traditions, paired with modern technique and thoughtful updates.
Chanthy has long been recognized for his work in reintroducing Cambodian cuisine to broader audiences in North America. His approach respects tradition while presenting dishes that are personal and timely. He has previously led kitchens in Montreal and Vancouver and has used food as a platform to tell stories of migration, identity, and resilience.