On September 25, 2026, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Los Angeles hosted “Rod Thai: Reimagining Thai Flavors, Elevating the Thai Culinary Experience” at the Consul General’s residence. The event brought together more than 80 guests, including Thai restaurateurs, culinary professionals, and ASEAN Consuls, to exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to Thai cuisine and dining experiences. Consul-General Sompop Sermswatsri delivered the opening remarks.

The program featured a panel discussion with Niwat Hansawat, Director of the Thai Trade Center, Los Angeles; Vanda Asapahu, Head Chef and Owner of Ayara Thai; Athikom Larpnampha, Co-founder of Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine; and Kat Thompson, Audience Editor at Eater LA and Co-author of The Family Thai Cookbook. The panel covered modern presentation and plating, storytelling and marketing, evolving consumer preferences, the overall dining experience, and the role of the Thai SELECT program in supporting Thai restaurants across the United States.

The discussion was followed by an Omakase-style cooking demonstration by Chef Paul, Puin Chuanchaisit featuring Tom Kha Hamachi, a modern take on Tom Kha soup with coconut foam, Hamachi, smoked trout roe, and crispy wonton, and Pad Thai Shrimp Crisp, featuring a rich Pad Thai glaze with poached shrimp and crispy noodles.

Attendees then sampled more than 12 Omakase-style and contemporary Thai dishes, desserts, and drinks. The tasting offered inspiration for new culinary and business ideas while providing opportunities to network and exchange concepts.

The strong turnout highlighted the Thai restaurant community’s continued interest in innovation, learning, and growth. The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, helping foster new opportunities within Los Angeles’s Thai culinary industry.