Thailand's Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) will host the THAI SELECT Festival 2026 on July 21 at Vanderbilt Hall, Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The event aims to strengthen the presence of authentic Thai cuisine in the United States, expand recognition of the THAI SELECT certification, and create commercial opportunities for Thai restaurants and food producers.
The United States is one of Thailand's largest export markets for food products. Through this festival, DITP seeks to connect American consumers with authentic Thai cuisine while reinforcing the competitiveness of Thai restaurants and promoting demand for premium Thai ingredients. The Ministry of Commerce announced that Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi will preside over the opening ceremony, underscoring Thailand's commitment to promoting authentic Thai cuisine internationally.
The festival, themed "Thai SELECT Playground – Play with Thai Flavors," will feature an immersive culinary experience with cooking demonstrations, cultural showcases, and interactive activities. Fifteen THAI SELECT-certified restaurants from across New York will prepare signature dishes, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Thai cuisine. Internationally acclaimed Thai actors Mile Phakphum Romsaithong and Apo Nattawin Wattanagitiphat will make special appearances to introduce Thai cuisine to broader audiences.
THAI SELECT is an official certification mark awarded by the Ministry of Commerce to restaurants and food products that meet standards of authentic Thai taste and quality. The certification serves as a trusted guide for consumers worldwide seeking genuine Thai dining experiences. This festival is part of DITP's broader strategy to increase global awareness of the certification and create new opportunities for Thai food exporters.
By strengthening the international profile of authentic Thai cuisine, DITP supports sustainable growth across Thailand's food value chain. The event demonstrates how culinary diplomacy can generate economic value by strengthening consumer confidence, supporting Thai entrepreneurs overseas, and creating trade and investment opportunities between Thailand and the United States.
