On 30th September 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy in Copenhagen organized “Thai Night” together with Radisson Collection Astorija, in Vilnius, Lithuania, at Astorija Brasserie Restaurant of the hotel as a series of activities to celebrate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Lithuania. The chef and the culinary team from the Ambassador’s residence specially crafted an authentic Thai food experience through a 5-course fine-dining meal. The First course was a trio of starters comprised of “Thoong Thong”, “Larb Kai Thod”, and “Chor Muang”. The second course was Thai papaya salad served with grilled beef, Thai spicy sauce, and sticky rice. Then, the word-renown “Tom Yam Goong” was presented as the third course. The Main course, which followed, was grilled salmon with “Chu-Chee” curry, served with stir-fried vegetables with oyster sauce, and steamed Thai Hom Mali rice. Lastly for the fifth course, “Tako Puak”, “Look Choob”, and mixed fruits were served as desserts. The hotel also contributed to the dining experience by offering a selection of “Cocktails inspired by Thailand” which complimented the menu.

 

To create a Thai atmosphere, the restaurant was beautifully decorated by many items from Thailand, including Khon Masks, mask worn by performers of a Thai traditional masked dance called “Khon”, Thai silver ornaments, Thai handicrafts, candle holders in the shape of a Thai elephant, Thailand’s northern-style umbrellas made from mulberry papers and hanging decoration or Tung, as well as menu cards and placemats with Thai traditional patterns. Several roll-ups showcasing Thai tourism were also displayed at the lobby of the hotel, and a photo of “Tom Yam Goong” was appeared on TV screen of every room for the hotel guests to see. The event successfully attracted the attention of many Lithuanians and led to fully reserved seats at the restaurant. According to Ms. Laura Vaitukaitienė, General Manager of the hotel, this was the only event in recent time which has gathered such a strong interest from the public and resulted in a fully reserved event. In the event, H.E. Sirilak Niyom, Ambassador of Thailand to Lithuania, had the opportunity to welcome Mr. Marius Jakulis Jason, the owner of the hotel, and Mrs. Lisa Jason, his spouse, to the dinner.

 

During the dinner, the guests were presented with Thai performances by young Thai artists from Moradokmai Theatre Community, led by Headmaster Janaprakul Chandruang or “Kru Chang”, a Thai national artist. The performances, which included Khon dance, and Thai traditional and contemporary music performed with Thai instruments, captivated and impressed the guests. The young artists displayed their tremendous talents and varied skills in performing which entertained and brought joy to every guest attended. Furthermore, each guest also received a keychain with an elephant doll to commemorate the occasion of 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Lithuania as a souvenir, as well as a beautifully crafted menu card and promotional materials for Thai tourism.

 

“Thai Night” in Lithuania was a resounding success with praises from the guests on the authentic Thai taste which was difficult to find in Lithuania, on the wonderful and colorful performances, and on the beautiful decorations which provided a touch of Thailand. The event brough back fond memories for those who had travelled to Thailand before, and inspired those who has never been there to inquire information about Thailand and planed their potential trip. Many also wished the Embassy to organize the event again in the upcoming year.