GASTRONOMY

Thailand is globally known for its world-class cuisine. Famed delicacies are derived from the fusion of diverse cultures throughout the history of not only Thailand, but also the world, with a legacy from China, India, Southeast Asia, western countries, and countless more, combining myriad international and local ingredients and techniques, enriched with spices and herbs and crafted with ancient wisdom and modern-day creativity, resulting in culinary wonders that can be showcased and catered for all visitors of Expo 2026, in order for them to experience everything from the renowned massaman (chicken massaman curry), tom kha kai, (spicy chicken coconut soup), and tom yum kung (spicy shrimp soup) to the unique local dishes of the northeastern region of Thailand.

1) Local Herbal Produce

Local Herbal Produce, which offers products made from local herbs, including knowledge on their benefits and uses for visitors to learn about the interconnected nature of humans and herbs and how the fruits of nature have been used to sustain human life throughout history

2) Culinary Culture Adventure

Culinary Culture Adventure is a selection of famous dishes from various cultures, from Thai food to Vietnamese food, Chinese food, etc.

◈Authentic Isaan regional cuisine Isaan food is one of the major gastronomical cultures in Thailand. Dishes such as som tam (papaya salad) and larb (spicy minced meat salad), which are heavily influenced by Lao culture, are known and enjoyed worldwide for their rich flavour and intense heat. Udon Thani, at the heart of the region, is sure to be the place to find authentic Esarn cuisine.

◈Introducing insects as a must-try food. The region’s biodiversity of life, combined with the local wisdom of ancient communities, has resulted in various local delicacies whose main ingredients include insects. Insects have been touted as a new superfood, as well as one of the most intriguing solutions to global food shortages. They have a high nutritional value-to-weight ratio and are rich in proteins and minerals; various types of insects have been a staple of the region and can also be made into many delicious dishes.

The market for edible insects has been growing steadily worldwide, with the global market size estimated at 650 million, and a projected market value of 1.43 billion in 2025.

3) The Future of Culinary Arts

The Future of Culinary Arts offers cutting-edge cuisine from a new generation of chefs fusing thousands of years of culinary history with the innovative minds of the new generations of culinary masters. Through the alchemy of young chefs combining their creativity, culinary skills, and the myriad diverse herbs, there will be a showcase of how the diversity of nature and cultures can create a fusion of tastes of local and international delicacies. Visitors to the expo will get to enjoy carefully selected dishes that are delectable yet healthy.