From July 19 to 20, the Grand Atrium of Shangri‑La Plaza in Mandaluyong was alive with the sights, smells, and sounds of Thailand as the Thai SELECT Festival brought a vibrant taste of Thai culture to Metro Manila
Authentic Flavors, Certified
What made this festival truly standout was its unwavering focus on authenticity. Every dish and product served carried the prestigious Thai SELECT seal, a certification from Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce reserved only for establishments that meet strict standards in ingredients, taste, and preparation. Over two delicious days, diners sampled signature fare from six to eight certified Thai restaurants, including favorites like Mango Tree, Benjarong Manila, Samyan Thai Street Food, Nara Thai Cuisine, Thai BBQ Original, Greyhound Café, and more
A Multisensory Thai Experience
Attendees enjoyed more than just food—this was a cultural immersion:
- Live cooking demonstrations by Thai chefs showcased the harmony of flavor layers in iconic dishes like pad Thai and tom yum
- Thai fruit and vegetable carving displays highlighted intricate artistry, turning everyday produce into floral masterpieces
- A curated Thai SELECT marketplace featured export-grade sauces, curry pastes, spice kits, and ready-to-cook meals—perfect for bringing authentic Thai flavors home
Culinary Showcase Highlights
- Benjarong Manila offered refined royal Thai cuisine, blending tradition with modern flair
- Samyan Thai Street Food brought the vibrant energy of Bangkok’s streets to Mandaluyong with bold, flavorful snacks and small plates
- Mango Tree drew attention with beloved dishes like crab stir-fried rice noodles, Panang curry, and their famous mango sticky rice
- Nara Thai Cuisine, Thai BBQ Original, Greyhound Café, and others also showcased their specialties—ranging from meticulous fine dining preparations to comforting grilled BBQ
Diplomacy Served on a Plate
More than a food fair, the festival celebrated the 76 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Thailand. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by Thai Trade Center Manila Director Sutinee Vathana and H.E. Ambassador Makawadee Sumitmor, marking the festival’s significance in cultural exchange. Director Vathana noted, “We are very grateful to our Filipino friends for continuously appreciating our dishes… Our food reflects years of history, culture, and values…”
Looking Ahead
According to the Philippines Graphic, the festival’s grand finale on July 20 was a resounding success—drawing food lovers, families, and culture enthusiasts to savor the true tastes of Thailand in a festive atmosphere. More than a gastronomic event, the Thai SELECT Festival reaffirmed the power of food to bridge cultures and forge lasting connections.If you missed this year’s festival, mark your calendars—Thai SELECT events frequently return to Manila, spotlighting new restaurants, regional specialties, and cultural performances. And if you’re eager to maintain your Thai culinary journey, look for Thai SELECT‑certified restaurants and products available in select local supermarkets and online
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