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Thai Restaurant NOK NOK Awarded Prestigious International Thai SELECT Recognition

2025-09-11T15:35:49

Nok Nok’s head chef Thuleewan Boonyarattana with Eva Hanschmit Kalmus and the Thai ambassador at the restaurant with the team. The interior and furnishings can be seen in the background.

Estonia’s culinary scene received a significant accolade on Thursday, September 11, as the Thai restaurant NOK NOK, located in Tallinn’s Old Town, was awarded the prestigious Thai SELECT certification. NOK NOK received a two-star rating, officially placing it among the 147 best Thai restaurants in the world.

Thai SELECT is a certification mark issued by the Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand, confirming that a restaurant offers authentic Thai flavors and meets high standards in food, service, and atmosphere.

The Thai SELECT certification is awarded at four levels – 1 star, 2 stars, 3 stars, and Casual – covering everything from affordable eateries like kiosks and food trucks to exclusive fine dining establishments. Restaurants are evaluated based on five key aspects: taste and presentation of food, atmosphere and customer experience, hygiene standards, chef’s skills, and quality of ingredients.

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the certification was ceremoniously presented at NOK NOK by His Excellency Worawoot Pongprapapant, Designated Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Estonia, and Kosin Phonmang, Counselor at the Thai Embassy.

“As the Thai Ambassador, I’m often asked by fellow diplomats where to find the best Thai restaurants offering authentic cuisine with the right ingredients and preparation methods. My answer is always the same: look for the Thai SELECT mark,” said Ambassador Worawoot Pongprapapant.

“Receiving this award means NOK NOK is now one of 864 restaurants worldwide that represent the true essence of Thai cuisine. They use traditional recipes and cooking methods passed down through generations,” the ambassador added.

There are a total of 864 Thai SELECT-certified restaurants in 54 countries, with the highest numbers in the USA, China, and the UK. Only seven restaurants have received the three-star rating. Among nearby countries, Finland has one three-star and five one-star restaurants, Sweden has three one-star restaurants, and Norway has one two-star restaurant. NOK NOK is now one of the 140 restaurants awarded two stars.

“My journey as a Thai chef began in childhood, helping my father prepare meals for tin mine workers. He could create incredible dishes from the simplest ingredients. These honest and authentic Thai flavors – presented in a modern and visually appealing way – are exactly what we aim to share with the world at NOK NOK,” said Thuleewan Boonyarattana, Head Chef at NOK NOK.

“This recognition is undoubtedly a great honor and a first for Estonia. It’s both a privilege and a responsibility, as every spotlight brings higher expectations. We’re ready to increase our visibility not only in Estonia but also on the international culinary map, and this recognition provides a fantastic opportunity to do so,” added Eva Hanschmidt-Kalmus, Member of the Board at NOK NOK.

Nok Nok’s head chef Thuleewan Boonyarattana with Eva Hanschmit Kalmus and the Thai ambassador at the restaurant with the team. The interior and furnishings can be seen in the background.
Nok Nok’s head chef Thuleewan Boonyarattana speaks with a man in a blue suit. In the background, restaurant shelves with glasses can be seen.
Nok Nok’s head chef Thuleewan Boonyarattana with Eva Hanschmit Kalmus, representatives of the Tallink Group, and the Thai ambassador at the restaurant. The interior and furnishings can be seen in the background.
Head chef Thuleewan, dressed in a white chef’s jacket and hat, introduces the kitchen to the Thai ambassador wearing a blue suit.
A smiling man holds a tall champagne glass. He is wearing a bright blue suit. Restaurant lights and the bar counter are visible in the background.
Nok Nok’s head chef Thuleewan Boonyarattana speaks with a man in a blue suit. In the background, restaurant shelves with glasses can be seen.

Located on Vana-Posti Street in Tallinn’s Old Town, NOK NOK is a cozy and stylish restaurant where guests can enjoy authentic Thai dishes and flavors. In 2024, the restaurant also received recognition from Michelin. NOK NOK is part of the Tallink Group, and Club One discounts apply.

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