The First Thai Select Festival was held in Manila from August 18-20, 2023, at Gyud Food. The festival featured five of the best authentic Thai restaurants in the country, all of which have been awarded the Thai Select seal of approval. The restaurants were Greyhound Cafe Philippines, Mango Tree Manila, Moo Baan Krung Thai, Nara Thai Manila, and Thai BBQ Manila. The festival was opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony by H.E. Mr. Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines.
ABOUT THAI SELECT
The Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, the Royal Thai Government launched the “Thai SELECT” program to certify and promote authentic Thai cuisine around the world.
It is a seal of approval granted to Thai restaurants (both overseas and local Thai restaurants that serve authentic Thai food) and processed Thai food products.
The objective is to give recognition to quality Thai restaurants and processed Thai food products as well as to encourage Thai restaurateurs and food producers to raise their quality while maintaining authenticity.
It is always a pleasure to listen to the speech of the Thai Ambassador H.E. Mr. Tull Traisorat about the importance of the Thai Select Award as a seal of authenticity and 2024 as the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the Philippines.
Thank you to the Thai Embassy for the full support during the opening of the festival:
H.E. Mr. Tull Traisorat | Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines
Jose Magsaysay Jr. | Owner, Gyud Food Market
Group Captain Soonthorn Pongampai | Defense and Air Attaché
Captain Pakpoom Muensri, RTN | Naval Attaché and Assistant Defense Attaché
Ms. Kntrexa LeRkao | Minister Counsellor
Miss Janthana Chotimunee | Director of Thai Trade Center in Manila
Thank you to Gyud Food Market for hosting the first ever Thai Select Festival in Manila!
GREYHOUND CAFE
Greyhound Cafe is a Thai restaurant chain that originated in Bangkok, Thailand. It was founded in 1990 by Greyhound, a Thai fashion brand. The restaurant chain has over 40 branches in Asia and Europe.
Greyhound Cafe Philippines was opened in 2022 by the Viva Group, a Filipino conglomerate. The first branch was opened at SM Aura Premier in Taguig City. Since then, Greyhound Cafe has opened branches in SM Mall of Asia, The Podium, Rockwell Powerplant Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, and Eastwood Mall.
Greyhound Cafe is known for its modern take on Thai cuisine.
MANGO TREE MANILA
Mango Tree Manila is a world-class restaurant franchised by restaurateurs Eric and Emelda Teng that showcases the best of all four regions of Thailand.
The interior of Mango Tree Manila is designed to evoke the atmosphere of a traditional Thai home. The restaurant is known for its good food, friendly service, and elegant atmosphere.
MOO BAAN KRUNG THAI
Moo Baan Krung Thai is a Thai restaurant in Marikina City that is known for its authentic cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has been in business for over 20 years, and the owners are passionate about sharing their love of Thai food with the community.
The menu at Moo Baan Krung Thai features a wide variety of dishes, from classic curries and stir-fries to more unique offerings like Khao Soi and Pad See Ew. The ingredients are all fresh and sourced locally, and the flavors are authentic and delicious.
Spicy Green Mango Salad (₱120), Pad Thai Special (₱170) and Mango Sticky Rice (₱180)
NARA THAI
Nara Thai is a Thai restaurant in Manila that is known for its authentic cuisine and modern atmosphere. The restaurant has two branches in Manila, one in SM Mega Fashion Hall and the other in Molito Lifestyle Center.
Nara Thai is also known for its modern and stylish interior. The restaurant has a sleek and minimalist design, with clean lines and neutral colors. The atmosphere is relaxed and sophisticated, making it a great place to enjoy a romantic meal or a business lunch.
THAI BBQ
Thai BBQ Manila is a Thai restaurant in Manila that specializes in Thai BBQ. The restaurant has two branches in Manila, one in Seda Vertis North and the other in Tiendesitas.
The atmosphere at Thai BBQ Manila is casual and relaxed. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they are always happy to help you choose the perfect dish.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, this was a great milestone in organizing this event with the Thai Select team to promote authentic Thai food in Manila! We enjoyed talking to the Thai Ambassador, as he is quite engaging and a great ambassador of Thai goodwill and hospitality.
Spanky was instrumental in making this happen and thank you to our media friends for the support!
See you in the next Thai Select Festival in 2024!
Live an Awesome Life with Christ,
Founder & Digital Creator, Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.
P.S. Remember look for the THAI SELECT seal for authentic Thai Food in Manila.
