An inaugural Thai Fest will happen in Manhattan on April 20.
New York City is the location of a new food festival and it will be the first ever one centered on Thai cuisine.
The inaugural Thai Fest will take place on Saturday, April 20, on 6th Avenue between 29th and 30th Streets in Manhattan. Its hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This food festival will deliver a taste of Thai food and drink by showcasing Thailand’s cultural flavors and traditions through 12 participating restaurants from throughout New York City.
Thai Fest, which is sponsored by the beverage brand, Chi Forest, was organized as a sister brand of the Dragon Fest. This NYC festival was founded in 2023 and celebrates Chinese culture through a schedule of events, tastings and market fairs.
Both events were started by Biubiu Xu, an entrepreneur and cultural advocate who also launched Egg House in 2018, an NYC pop-up immersion experience.
Twelve Thai restaurants throughout New York City will participate in Thai Fest.
“While hosting Dragon Fest, the team encountered various cuisines from countries with significant overseas Chinese populations, naturally including Thai cuisine,” said Xu. “Dragon Fest is an annual outdoor festival that celebrates Chinese food and culture in New York. Following its success, the team decided to expand our cultural festivals to include other Asian cultures, leading to the creation of Thai Fest.”
The 12 restaurants will set up booths and offer around 35 different food items. As admission to Thai Fest is free and open to the public, the cost for purchasing food and drinks will range between $8-$15 each.
“What makes Thai cuisine unique in NYC is the presence of both authentic food from underrepresented restaurants and innovative, creative twists on traditional dishes from more well-known establishments,” said Xu. “This diversity is embraced and reflected at Thai Fest, where the festival highlights these culinary aspects through the participation of various NYC Thai restaurants.”
Traditional Thai food and drink will be sold at the inaugural Thai Fest.
The offers include Thai delicacies include some well-noted city establishments. The planned list extends to: Crab Fried Rice from Fish Cheeks in Manhattan; spicy Krapow from Mayree in Manhattan; savory Fried Meatballs from Sappe in Manhattan; rich Khao Soi from Soothr in Manhattan; and crispy Fried Chicken from Somtum Der in Manhattan.
Other choices will incorporate classic Pad Thai from Rua Thai in Brooklyn; sweet Mango Sticky Rice from Zabb PuTawn in Manhattan; flavorful Garlic Noodle from Obao in Manhattan; and tangy Tom Yum Ramen from 11Tigers in Manhattan.
“These restaurants were invited to join based on their reputation for quality and authenticity in Thai cuisine,” said Xu. “The active participation of these Thai restaurants can be attributed to their eagerness to engage in community events that provide an excellent platform for promoting Thai cuisine and culture.”
