Nine Swiss Restaurants Earn Prestigious Thai Select Culinary Award
Geneva, Switzerland—Nine Swiss restaurants received the coveted Thai Select certification on February 18th, significantly increasing the presence of authentic Thai cuisine in the European nation. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan presented the awards, marking a substantial step in Thailand’s ongoing soft power strategy to promote its rich culinary heritage globally.
This prestigious accolade assures diners of a genuine Thai dining experience, encompassing both food quality and authentic flavors. The newly certified restaurants—Na Village, Sauhoy, Ban Thai, Bang Yai, Lanna Thai, Marifah, Thai Artisans, Jame’s Pub, and SOI—join an elite group, bringing the total number of Thai Select certified establishments in Switzerland to 19.
Minister Pichai emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting the government’s commitment to elevating Thai cuisine internationally. He explained that the Thai Select program recently underwent a significant revamp, adopting a tiered system similar to the Michelin star ratings. Restaurants meeting baseline criteria receive the standard Thai Select emblem, while exceptional establishments can earn one to three stars, reflecting distinctions in taste, quality, and service. This new system provides a clear guide for diners seeking exceptional Thai dining experiences.
The redesigned Thai Select symbol, reflecting this tiered approach, will be officially unveiled at the THAIFEX–Anuga Asia 2025 trade show in May in Bangkok. This prominent food and beverage trade fair provides an ideal platform for the launch. To further enhance accessibility, the ministry plans to release a dedicated Thai Select mobile application. This digital tool will allow locals and tourists to easily locate certified restaurants, promoting these culinary gems.
The award ceremony showcased Thai culture. Attendees witnessed a captivating demonstration of traditional Thai food preparation, focusing on the iconic som tum (papaya salad). The event also included a delectable sampling of dishes from the newly certified restaurants, offering a firsthand experience of the culinary excellence being celebrated.
Minister Pichai also encouraged attendees to visit a concurrent Thai food promotion at the Globus department store in Geneva. This promotion, running until February 22nd, features a curated selection of premium Thai products, including essential ingredients like curry paste, seasoning sauces, coconut milk, and noodles, as well as jasmine rice and seasonal fruits. This complements the restaurant certifications, allowing consumers to experience authentic Thai flavors at home.
The Thai Select program, along with initiatives like the Globus promotion, represents a concerted effort to elevate Thai cuisine globally. By recognizing and promoting authentic culinary experiences, Thailand shares its rich cultural heritage, strengthening its international culinary standing and inviting food enthusiasts to explore the diverse and delicious world of Thai flavors.
