Master Chef Nooror Brings Authentic Thai Flavor to COOP Switzerland

Master Chef Nooror Somany at the Asian Wok Station

Something unexpected unfolded during a recent lunchtime at COOP Headquarters. What is usually a calm, structured office environment was suddenly awakened by the vibrant aromas of lemongrass, chili, and coconut milk. The familiar rhythm of the day paused as a curious crowd gathered around the Asian Wok Station, drawn in by both scent and spectacle.

At the center of this transformation was Nooror Somany Steppe, whose presence turned an ordinary lunch break into an immersive culinary experience. With each movement at the wok, she brought not only technique but also a piece of Thailand’s rich gastronomic heritage to the heart of Switzerland.

Master Chef Nooror and the COOP Partnership

This special activation was more than a one-time appearance. It marked a week-long celebration of the enduring 16+ year partnership between Blue Elephant and Coop, one of Switzerland’s most respected retailers. Hosted within the 1864 Restaurant at COOP Headquarters, the space was transformed into a vibrant Thai pop-up that redefined the everyday lunch experience.

Each day, employees and guests were invited to step into a curated journey of Thai flavors, where authenticity met accessibility. The menu was thoughtfully designed to showcase iconic Thai dishes while bridging local Swiss ingredients with traditional techniques:

• Velvety Green Curry : slow-simmered with aromatic herbs and authentic Blue Elephant ingredients, delivering depth, balance, and richness in every bite
• Wok-fried Tom Yum : a creative interpretation blending fresh Swiss produce with the bold, unmistakable character of Thailand’s most beloved soup
• Live cooking moments: where guests could watch, engage, and connect directly with Master Chef Nooror, turning each dish into a story rather than just a serving

Beyond the food itself, it was the personal interaction that elevated the experience. Master Chef Nooror’s warmth, storytelling, and passion drew a steady following throughout the week, with many returning not just for the flavors, but for the connection.

Culinary Storytelling at the Eurogroup Annual Summit

The journey did not end at COOP Headquarters. Master Chef Nooror continued to share her culinary vision at the prestigious Eurogroup Annual Summit, where she curated an elegant Thai canapé cocktail dinner.

Here, Thai cuisine was reinterpreted in refined, bite-sized expressions each canapé designed to capture the essence of traditional flavors while fitting seamlessly into a contemporary, international setting. Alongside the dinner, an exclusive private masterclass offered guests a deeper understanding of Thai culinary philosophy, ingredients, and techniques.

By the end of the week, what began as a simple lunchtime surprise had evolved into something far more meaningful. Employees and guests of COOP did not just enjoy Thai cuisine they experienced it. Through aroma, taste, and personal storytelling, Master Chef Nooror created moments that lingered well beyond the plate.

This collaboration stands as a testament to how food, when guided by authenticity and passion, can transcend borders, connect cultures, and transform even the most familiar environments into something truly memorable.