The First Authentic Thai Restaurant in NZ

A Thai restaurant was one of the first to bring authentic Thai food to New Zealand. The Original Thai Restaurant in Island Bay is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. At the time of its opening, there were only a few Thai people living in Christchurch. In addition, Asian cuisine wasn't widely loved in the Western world. But now, Westerners are starting to become more adventurous eaters.

As a result, a number of restaurants have opened up to offer Thai cuisine. Despite its high popularity, many don't offer the full flavours of Thai cooking. Authentic Thai cuisine requires genuine ingredients imported from Thailand. It also incorporates certain combinations of vegetables, herbs and sauces to create distinctive flavours.

The Original Thai Restaurant in Island Bay is a brightly lit restaurant with a colourful atmosphere and traditional decorations. There are pictures of past Thai monarchs on the walls. Several of the diners have been regular customers since the restaurant's beginning. One man has been dining at the restaurant for sixteen years. He has brought several friends and family members along to enjoy his favorite dishes.

Before the Original Thai Restaurant was founded, there was only a single Thai restaurant in New Zealand. Natttachai Changrattanachaichok, better known as "Chang", was the proprietor and founder of this establishment. In 1993, he opened this restaurant with his wife Nok and their family. Since then, it has grown to become the largest and oldest Thai restaurant in Christchurch.

In 2002, the Thai government published a book called "A Manual for Thai Chefs Going Abroad". This book was meant to help Thai chefs find employment overseas. The book also gave information on the training and recruitment of Thai chefs. Ultimately, the Thai government helped fund thousands of Thai restaurants abroad.

When David and Ros Harley moved to Mangonui, they expressed a desire to see a Thai Chef's restaurant open in the area. They eventually became the first franchisees for the brand. However, the original Thai Restaurant closed its second location in Tory Street two years ago.

Now, there are a number of other places to get a taste of authentic Thai cooking in New Zealand. Erawan Thai, Thai Orchid, Pla Thong Thai, Tuk Tuk Thai and Thai Kitchen are just a few. Some of these places are operated by non-ethnic Thais. These restaurants may have some of the best chefs in the country.

For a true taste of Thailand, check out Pla Thong Thai, which has won several awards. Owner Thanet Singcharoenchai says the food at the restaurant is delicious. Many of the staff are imported from Thailand. The restaurant is also a Menulog partner. After receiving hundreds of votes from local fans, the restaurant won its first ever 'People's Choice' award.

Another great Thai eatery is Erawan Thai, which is located in Shirley. Erawan is just 10 minutes' drive from Christchurch city centre. If you're a fan of fiery Thai cuisine, this is a place to try.