BANGKOK Bangkok’s rising stature as a place for fine dining will get the ultimate nod from the authorities on world-class cuisine when the Michelin Guide launches here later this year.

After progressive Indian restaurant Gaggan was ranked Asia’s best restaurant for a third year on a list increasingly crowded with Bangkok restaurants, global gastronomers will take note with coverage by Michelin, whose arrival had been rumored for several years.

Two weeks ago the interim cabinet approved 143.5 million baht for the tourism authority to invest in promoting travel relating to Michelin Guide Thailand’s coverage. Saying that Michelin would later expand beyond Bangkok, the cabinet made the five-year commitment in a bid to further elevate quality fine-dining, attract international chefs and boost tourism.

Michelin Red Guides are a series of guide books published by French tire company Michelin since 1900. Gaining or losing a Michelin star can be a source of soul-wrenching anxiety for the top-ranked eateries.

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In Asia, Michelin guides are available in Japan, Seoul, Shanghai, Hong Kong-Macau and Singapore.

Bangkok will be the sixth Asian locale with a Michelin Guide. It’s expected to launch by the end of the year, with an initial focus on the Bangkok before expanding nationwide in the following years.

 

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