Culinary Tourism Heats Up: Over 80% of Traveloka’s Top-Searched 100 Food & Drink Experiences are in Thailand

Traveloka rankings reaffirm Thailand’s aspirations to become a global culinary hub while fuelling tourism-driven economic growth

Thailand is cementing its place as Asia Pacific’s culinary capital, attracting traveling epicureans from around the region and beyond. According to Traveloka’s search rankings, a remarkable over 80% of the top 100 food and drink experiences are based in Thailand. That’s a resounding endorsement of the Kingdom’s status as a leading culinary tourism powerhouse — and strong momentum behind its ambition to become a global food hub by 2026.

Bangkok: A Global Gastro-Tourism Magnet

Bangkok stands firmly at the center of Southeast Asia’s culinary epicenter. Among Traveloka’s top 100 food and drink experiences in the region, over 60% are located in the Thai capital. The most prominent categories drawing travelers’ interest are:

1. Dining Experiences: A Blend of Luxury, Artistry, and Variety

Travelers are increasingly seeking elevated and unique dining moments, with a strong preference for buffets, omakase experiences, and afternoon tea. These include the Miracle Lounge at Don Mueang Airport, W Omakase Pradit Manutham, YOU&I Premium Shabu Buffet Central World, Wisdom International Buffet, and Copper Aquarium Restaurant.

2. Dinner Cruises

Bangkok’s iconic river transforms into a romantic culinary route by night, with travelers drawn to luxurious dinner cruises that pair gourmet meals with city views and live entertainment, such as the Meridian Dinner Cruise, Royal Princess Cruise at ASIATIQUE The Riverfront Pier, Chaophraya Cruise at ASIATIQUE The Riverfront Pier, White Orchid Chao Phraya River Dinner Cruise, and Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise.

3. Rooftop Bars & Sky Dining

Bangkok’s skyline offers a dramatic backdrop for some of the region’s most stunning rooftop bars and sky dining experiences. These venues pair panoramic views with craft cocktails and curated menus, making them a hit for both locals and tourists, including Sky on 20, Vertigo at Banyan Tree, Sirocco at Lebua, Red Sky Rooftop, and Axis & Spin, etc.

While Bangkok continues to stand out, Traveloka data also reveals strong search interest in dining experiences in Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Phuket, and Hua Hin, showcasing Thailand’s depth and diversity in culinary tourism.

Who Else Made the Top 100?

Strategic Momentum Behind Thailand’s Food Ambitions

Thailand is undeniably a premier destination for culinary enthusiasts, with travelers increasingly drawn to explore unique food experiences, rather than making food a secondary part of the trip.

This gastronomic renaissance aligns perfectly with Thailand’s broader strategy. The Royal Thai government aims to establish the country as a leading culinary tourism destination, with food trade revenues projected to exceed 700 billion THB (USD 20 billion) in 2025. The Thai Restaurant Association (TRA), led by Taniwan Koonmongkon, is projecting 5% annual growth, driven by strategic public-private collaboration to promote food-focused tourism.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is intensifying its focus on promoting gastronomic tourism, fostering an environment where culinary exploration drives both international and domestic travel. With the roll out of ‘Mueang Na Tiew: Year of Celebration” campaign during the Green Season (June–September 2025). The initiative promotes 55 secondary cities, with themed experiences like ‘Gastro Nomad’ that offers tailored menus for adventurous culinary travelers. TAT expects the campaign to reach over 10 million people and drive at least 500 million THB in tourism spending, highlighting Thailand's commitment to positioning its vibrant food scene as a central attraction on the global stage.

As Southeast Asia’s leading all-in-one travel platform, Traveloka plays a pivotal role in advancing Thailand’s food tourism ambitions. By partnering with government sectors and local experience providers, Traveloka supports promotion efforts while helping travelers maximize their journeys through exclusive deals and curated experiences.

For Traveloka, culinary travel goes beyond food—it's about engaging with culture, community, and creating lasting memories. Thailand consistently ranks high for its authentic, valuable, and unique culinary experiences. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful adventure, Thailand's diverse food scene offers visitors the opportunity to explore genuine and unforgettable experiences.