The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has partnered with Michelin Group to officially launch the Bangkok Michelin Guide, the world's most recognised restaurant reference, in December.
The country's first Michelin Guide for refined restaurants in the capital will attract more international tourists to enjoy gastronomy tourism here, said TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn.
The Michelin Guide is intended to serve as an influential gastronomic reference to people around the world, promoting Thailand as a quality leisure destination.
TAT is confident the partnership with Michelin will significantly benefit the Thai tourism industry and boost business at local restaurants to further contribute to overall economic development.
Bangkok Michelin Guide 2018 will be launched in December, allowing locals, tourists, and business travellers to discover recommended restaurants based on budget and taste.
Mr Yuthasak said the guide will help increase spending from international tourists by 15-20%, up from 1,000 baht per head at present.
He said the five-year Michelin Guide project will enhance the gastronomic experience in Thailand and promote awareness of Thai cuisine.
The guide will require a budget of 123 million baht to complete.
"The launching of the French-based Michelin Guide will lure more international tourists, especially quality ones," Mr Yuthasak said.
Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul said the guide book will help provided added-value to those Thai restaurants which receive Michelin stars.
"It's a good time to drive Thailand to become a quality leisure destination over the next five years," Ms Kobkarn said.
Bangkok Michelin Guide will not only cover fine-dining but also trendy eateries and street food stalls.
There are five criteria to guarantee a consistent selection from product quality, preparation and flavours, chef's personality as revealed through the cuisine, value for money, and consistency over time and across the entire menu.
The Michelin Guide selections are now available in 29 countries and Thailand is the latest country to join the club in Asia after Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, China and Singapore.