Thai cuisine is having a moment on the world stage

Teerin Julsawad

Thailand’s rich culinary heritage recently achieved a new milestone after the Ministry of Culture announced UNESCO’s recognition of the classic hot sour soup, Tomyum Kung, as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision marks Thailand’s fifth entry on the prestigious list.

The announcement comes as Thailand places its food at the heart of a soft power strategy aimed at fostering connections, recognition, and economic growth on the world stage. Long celebrated for its complex interplay of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors and enriched by the use of exquisite herbs, the gastronomy of Thai cuisine reflects not only the kingdom’s unique cultural heritage, but also its philosophy of balance and harmony.

Thai Cuisine as soft power

Author Kathleen Pokrud (left) holding a copy of her book, Global Culinary Stories, with Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs. Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website

The growing global presence of Thai food is no accident, having been a core part of the Thai government’s soft power policy. Recognizing the power of cultural exports, the policy aims to boost Thailand’s economy and global influence by fostering a creative economy rooted in national heritage.

A newly released book, Global Culinary Stories by Kathleen Pokrud, highlights recipes and culinary traditions from over 45 countries, underscoring how food fosters cross-cultural admiration and friendship. Featuring royal recipes from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, it also reinforces Thai cuisine’s significance as a diplomatic asset.

The recent elevation of Sorn, a Bangkok-based restaurant specializing in southern Thai cuisine, as the country’s first three-MICHELIN-starred establishment, highlights the global rise of Thai cuisine. Chef-owner Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri credits his culinary roots to his childhood days spent cooking with his grandmother, whose traditional recipes became the foundation for his modern interpretations. These in turn have earned acclaim for their authenticity and innovation.

Cultural and economic opportunities

Source: shellygraphy / Shutterstock.com

The Thai government’s strategic push for cultural soft power has further expanded under the current leadership of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Events such as the Global Culinary Stories book launch and international film incentives have been part of this broader strategy, with food remaining the crown jewel of these efforts.

Thai dishes like Tomyum Kung, Pad Thai, and Khao Niao Mamuang (mango sticky rice) have already gained global recognition, with moments like rapper Milli’s performance at Coachella — where she ate the dish on stage — sparking viral interest. Now, high-profile restaurants like Sorn are elevating these traditions to fine-dining status, drawing international attention and admiration.

As Thailand continues to blend tradition with innovation, its cuisine stands as a testament to the power of food to bridge cultures, create friendships, and leave an enduring impact on the global stage.

Author:

Teerin Julsawad

An NYU and Columbia alum, Teerin spent a vibrant decade immersed in NYC life, with a stint at The New Yorker for good measure. Now he stirs his creative pot in Bangkok, mixing journalism, design, and digital marketing into an enticing concoction, always keen on forging meaningful connections through his craft.

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https://www.thailandnow.in.th/arts-culture/thai-cuisine-is-having-a-moment-on-the-world-stage/

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