Nara Thai Makati earns the Thai Select Seal, recognizing its commitment to authentic flavors, traditional cuisine, and the dining traditions of Thailand
Published Aug 26, 2026 11:11 am
There is something reassuring about a government seal of approval when it comes to a restaurant built around the cuisine of another country. For Nara Thai Makati, that recognition has now come from Thailand itself, with the restaurant recently earning the Thai Select Seal.
The recognition, granted by the Royal Thai Government’s Ministry of Commerce through its Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), honors Nara Thai Makati for its commitment to bringing genuine Thai flavors, culinary traditions, and the overall Thai dining experience to Filipino diners.
The milestone was celebrated at a gathering led by Nara Thai owner Sheila Romero and COO Charisse Amisola, together with Corporate Head Chef Mark Ortega and Thai Chef Sorada Sriwichai. Thailand Ambassador Makawadee Sumitmor served as guest of honor, joined by Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Rangsant Srimangkorn of the Royal Thai Embassy, DSWD Undersecretary Pinky Montenegro, DOE Assistant Secretary Mandy Romero, and Sta. Rosa, Laguna Mayor Arlene Arcillas.
(Photo: Nara Thai Makati)
For Nara Thai, the recognition is particularly meaningful because authenticity has been part of the brand’s Philippine story from the beginning.
Founded in Bangkok in 2003, Nara Thai has grown from a homegrown Thai restaurant into an international dining brand with locations in seven countries across Asia and the Middle East. It entered the Philippine market in 2018 through Sheila opening its first branch at SM Megamall with the aim of making authentic Thai cuisine more accessible while staying true to its Bangkok roots.
That commitment involves more than simply putting Thai dishes on a menu. According to the release, the brand sources ingredients from Thailand, draws on Thai culinary expertise, and trains local chefs in Bangkok — all in an effort to maintain the quality and taste associated with its original restaurant.
“The Thai Select recognition is very meaningful to us because it recognizes the authenticity and quality of the Thai cuisine we serve. More importantly, it validates what we set out to do eight years ago: to stay true to the flavors and traditions of Thailand while sharing them with Filipino diners,” Sheila said during the announcement.
Nara Thai’s menu includes signature dishes such as Crab Yellow Curry and Durian Sticky Rice, while other house favorites include Soft Shell Crab In Garlic, Massaman Beef Curry, and Prawn Pancake.
The Thai Select recognition also encompasses the broader dining experience, including the quality of ingredients, Thai culinary expertise, preparation, presentation, and service.
Nara Thai Makati is the brand’s third Philippine branch to receive the Thai Select Seal, following Nara Thai Molito in Alabang and Nara Thai SM Megamall.
And there is more to come. Sheila announced that Nara Thai’s fourth Philippine branch is set to open at SM Nuvali in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, later this year, with the new location expected to create additional employment and livelihood opportunities.
(Photo: Nara Thai Makati)
The brand has also expanded beyond its restaurants through a catering service, offering its dishes for intimate gatherings, corporate occasions, weddings, birthdays, and other milestone celebrations.
For Nara Thai Makati, the Thai Select Seal is therefore more than another distinction on the wall. It is an official acknowledgment of the restaurant’s stated mission: to bring the flavors, traditions, and hospitality of Thailand to Filipino diners while remaining faithful to its roots.
(Photo: Nara Thai Makati)
Dining and Cooking