Reserve Your Seat, Enjoy Signature Thai Dishes, And Cast Your Vote Before The Campaign Wraps Up
The much-anticipated Thai SELECT East Africa campaign has been the talk of the region this August, inviting food lovers to experience Thailand’s world-renowned culinary heritage right here in East Africa.
Spearheaded by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce Thailand, through its Office of Commercial Affairs in Nairobi (OCA), this month-long celebration has brought together some of the finest Thai SELECT-certified restaurants across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The result? A colourful showcase of specially curated menus, cultural experiences, and an exciting chance to win prizes.
The Taste of Authenticity
When you see the Thai SELECT logo, you’re not just picking a restaurant, you’re making a choice to experience authentic Thai cuisine. This internationally recognized certification, awarded by the Royal Thai Government, is only given to restaurants that uphold Thailand’s highest standards of taste, ingredients, service, and cultural authenticity.
And this August, the participating Thai SELECT restaurants have gone above and beyond. Their exclusive campaign menus have featured dishes that embody the soul of Thai gastronomy, such as:
- Tom Yum Goong – the iconic hot-and-sour prawn soup layered with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
- Pad Thai – wok-tossed rice noodles balanced with tamarind, peanuts, and fresh lime.
- Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry) – a creamy coconut-based curry infused with fragrant green chilies and Thai basil.
- Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad) – fresh, tangy, and delightfully crunchy.
- Mango Sticky Rice – Thailand’s most beloved dessert, sweet and tropical.
These are not just meals, they’re cultural expressions. Every plate tells a story of harmony, balance, and craftsmanship that has been refined over centuries.
Where to Dine Before August Ends
If you haven’t yet joined in, the time is now. Thai SELECT restaurants across East Africa are still welcoming diners with unforgettable menus:
Kenya
- Thai Chi – Sarova Stanley, Nairobi: Royal Thai elegance in one of Nairobi’s most iconic hotels.
+254 719 048 005 / +254 719 048 006
- Thai Chi 102 – Lavington, Nairobi: A cosy neighbourhood favourite with authentic flavours in a homely setting.
+254 793 000 444 / +254 735 432 102
- Bang Bang Thai Kitchen – Village Market, Nairobi: Bold Thai street food meets modern flair.
- Herbs & Spices – Nairobi Serena Hotel: Serenity meets culinary artistry in this tranquil, high-end Thai venue.
Tel: +254202842333 / Cell: +254732123333
- The Aviary – Dusit Princess Hotel, Nairobi: Rooftop dining with Thai tapas and cocktails against the Nairobi skyline.
Tanzania
- Thai Kani – Dar es Salaam: Where the ocean breeze meets Thai spice—perfect coastal dining with authentic flavour.
- Lotus Spa and Thai Cuisine – Arusha: Homestyle Thai cooking served in a peaceful garden atmosphere.
Uganda
- Entebbe Palm Hotel: Lakeside dining with a refreshing Thai menu inspired by the serenity of the lake.
- Bangkok Thai Cuisine – Kampala: A cosy escape into the bustling streets of Bangkok through flavour.
How to Join Before It’s Too Late
It’s simple, fun, and rewarding:
- Reserve your table at any Thai SELECT-certified restaurant.
- Order the Thai SELECT Set Menu, available only this August.
- Immerse yourself in the flavours, ambiance, and cultural storytelling.
- Vote for your favourite restaurant using the QR code provided.
- Win prizes including dining vouchers and authentic Thai hampers.
And here’s the best part: the more restaurants you visit, the higher your chances of winning.
A Cultural Celebration
This year’s campaign hasn’t just been about food. It’s been a bridge between Thailand and East Africa, with cultural highlights like Queen Mother’s Day on August 12th, celebrated at Thai Chi – Sarova Stanley with traditional décor, floral arrangements, and signature dishes that honoured Thailand’s deep-rooted traditions.
Every dining experience has been a chance not just to eat, but to connect with Thai culture, through flavours, hospitality, and presentation.
Bring Thai SELECT Flavours Home: Cooking Tips from Thailand
While dining at Thai SELECT restaurants gives you the most authentic experience, you can also bring a taste of Thailand into your kitchen. Here are some pro tips inspired by Thai culinary masters:
- Balance is Everything: Thai food is about harmony; spicy, sour, salty, and sweet. Always taste as you go to keep the balance.
- Fresh Herbs & Aromatics: Lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, and galangal are the heart of Thai cooking. Use them fresh where possible for vibrant flavours.
- The Wok is King: High heat and quick cooking preserve freshness and texture. Don’t overcrowd your pan, let each ingredient shine.
- Coconut Milk Magic: When making curries, add coconut milk gradually. It gives depth, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness.
- Spice with Respect: Thai cuisine is known for its heat, but it’s never overpowering. Use chilies thoughtfully to enhance flavour, not mask it.
- Rice Matters: Jasmine rice is a staple in Thai meals. Fragrant, soft, and slightly sticky, it’s the perfect canvas for curries and stir-fries.
Try these tips at home, but for the full authentic experience, nothing beats a Thai SELECT-certified restaurant where chefs have mastered these traditions over generations.
Why You Can’t Afford to Miss Out
With only a few days left in Thai SELECT Month, here’s why you should book your table today:
- Authenticity Guaranteed: Taste Thailand’s most iconic dishes prepared to international Thai SELECT standards.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the spirit of Thailand without leaving East Africa.
- Win Big: Dine, vote, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes.
- Limited Time Only: These special menus and experiences are available until the end of August.
Don’t just hear about it, be part of it. Dine. Vote. Win. Your Thai culinary journey awaits.
About Thai SELECT
Thai SELECT is an internationally recognized mark of certification awarded by the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government. It honors restaurants and food products that deliver authentic Thai cuisine globally, following traditional preparation methods, original recipes, and exceptional service standards.
The certification comes in various tiers, including Thai SELECT Signature for fine dining and Thai SELECT Casual for quality Thai food in a relaxed setting. Additionally, Thai SELECT-certified products allow you to enjoy true Thai flavors at home with confidence.
Whether dining out or shopping for ingredients, the Thai SELECT logo is your trusted seal of authenticity, quality, and cultural integrity.
