Until relatively recent times, Thailand 's rich culinary heritage was one of its best-kept secrets. Discovery by the outside world came first with the advent of tourism to the Kingdom, later through the phenomenal popularity of Thai restaurants that opened in cities as diverse as Los Angeles and London , Sydney and Tokyo . Now even a first-time visitor is likely to have some prior experience of the subtle blend of tastes and textures that make a Thai meal so memorable and most are eager to broaden their knowledge of this unique cuisine.

Many, however, might be surprised to find how diversified the country's cooking is. Each of the four major regions has its own special creations, sometimes revealing foreign influences assimilated over the centuries but always with a distinctive Thai flavor.