Tourism Authority of Thailand Announces Chon Buri as New Star in MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025

Thursday, April 4, 2024

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is thrilled to reveal that the forthcoming MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2025 edition will extend its coverage to include Chon Buri, a coastal province located approximately 80 kilometres away from Bangkok.

TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said “The Guide’s coverage expansion to Chonburi is convinced to yield benefits to both the province itself and the country.  Among them are increasing the market value of local gastronomy, generating income for local communities, and stimulating national economic growth.”

Chon Buri, known for its dynamic coastal charm, attracts a wide range of visitors, from Bangkok residents seeking a quick getaway to international tourists exploring its diverse attractions. The province offers a mix of traditional culture, regional specialties, fresh seafood, and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts with famous spots such as Bang Saen, Pattaya, and Ko Lan.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, said “Chon Buri has enough to keep travellers occupied during their stays – from beautiful beaches, peaceful temples, local cultural performances, varied festival activities to diverse eateries, stalls, and even a fascinating night life.

“The fresh seafood, unique local delicacies, and beachfront dining experiences are also great features. All these shape Chon Buri into a lively tourist destination. Our inspection team can’t wait to explore its gastronomic scene!”

The MICHELIN Guide has significantly contributed to promoting Thai cuisine globally, positioning Thailand as a premier destination for gastronomic tourism. This effort aligns with the government’s strategy to enhance Thailand’s international appeal through the 5Fs: Food, Fashion, Film, Fight, and Festival, with the aim of boosting tourism competitiveness.

“Rich and diverse cuisine, or “Food”, is one of the soft-power foundations attracting tourists from all over the world to Thailand,” Ms. Thapanee said. “As an influential gastronomic reference to food enthusiasts worldwide, The MICHELIN Guide showcases Thailand’s dynamic and captivating culinary landscape that adds more meaningful value to the country’s tourism industry.”

The 2025 edition of the MICHELIN Guide in Thailand, marking its eighth release, will introduce Chon Buri as the newest featured destination. This follows the inclusion of Bangkok and its surrounding provinces since 2018, Phuket and Phang-Nga since 2019, Chiang Mai since 2020, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya since 2022, Isan since 2023, and Ko Samui and Surat Thani in 2024. Bangkok’s neighboring provinces include Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, and Samut Sakhon, while Isan features Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Ubon Ratchathani, and Udon Thani.

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