Nara Thai, a restaurant group known for its refined take on traditional Thai cuisine, has opened a new branch in Makati, further expanding its presence in the Philippines.
Founded in Bangkok by Narawadee “Yuki” Srikarnchana and Sirisopa “Jean” Chulasewok, Nara Thai has built its reputation on serving authentic Thai dishes in an upscale setting. The concept was introduced to the Philippines by Sheila Marie Romero and Charissa Amisola, the chief executive and chief operating officers of Rokugroup Inc.
“We’re thrilled to bring Nara Thai to Makati,” Romero said. “This city has always been at the crossroads of business, culture and dining. It’s the perfect place to grow the experience and welcome even more guests into our culinary story.”
Known for bold flavors and aromatic spices, Thai cuisine has found a receptive audience in the Philippines, where dishes featuring tamarind, coconut and slow-simmered stews resonate with local palates. Popular offerings at Nara Thai include green curry chicken, tom yum goong and bualoy, a dessert of glutinous rice balls in coconut milk that draws comparisons to Filipino ginataan.
To maintain authenticity, the restaurant sources core ingredients such as curry pastes, pad thai sauce, tamarind and chili paste directly from Thailand. Amisola noted that the restaurant’s curry pastes are produced in-house at Nara Thai in Bangkok, contributing to a distinctive flavor profile.
The restaurant has also received Thai SELECT certification, an official recognition from the Royal Thai Government awarded to establishments that preserve traditional Thai culinary methods and ingredients.
“We don’t change the recipes,” Amisola said. “But we do take care to highlight dishes we know will connect with our guests here in the Philippines.”
Among the signature dishes served at the new Makati location are tom yum goong, a hot and sour soup flavored with lemongrass and chili; pad thai, which balances tamarind’s tang with a mild sweetness; and takoh, a coconut cream dessert set in pandan leaves.
The Makati branch features the same design elements as its other locations, including jewel-toned accents and traditional Thai motifs, but introduces a livelier atmosphere suited to the fast-paced environment of Ayala Center. The restaurant is intended to accommodate a range of occasions, from business lunches to casual gatherings.
The expansion reflects the company’s broader goal of introducing more diners in the Philippines to the flavors of Thailand, Romero said.
Nara Thai continues to operate its branches at the SM Megamall Fashion Hall in Mandaluyong City, and Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang.
