How to Find Authentic Thai Food in America

Famous Boat Noodles with tender cuts of braised pork, pork balls, and crisp bean sprouts, topped with scallion and cilantro. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Thai food abounds outside of Thailand—but how to distinguish the authentic from the masses? Look for a diamond-shaped seal with a red border, labeled “Thai SELECT.”

The Thai SELECT seal. (Courtesy of the Ministry of Commerce, Royal Thai Government)

Thai SELECT is the official seal of approval for authentic Thai cuisine, a certification granted by the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government to restaurants around the world. For a restaurant to qualify, at least 60 percent of their menu must offer authentic Thai dishes, prepared using the same or similar cooking methods as those used in Thailand. About 400 restaurants in the United States have been certified.

The Thai government launched the program to promote authentic Thai cuisine across the globe. Through September, an online and social media campaign, “Check for Thai SELECT,” will further encourage U.S. customers to seek out certified restaurants with a chance to win a trip for two to Thailand.

Find sweepstakes details at Bitly.com/CheckForThaiSelect and a full list of certified restaurants in the U.S. at ThaiSelectUSA.info.