The Thai new year, called Songkran, is celebrated today, April 13, through this Wednesday. The word means "move" or to "change place," in regard to the sun's changing its position in the zodiac. Songkran doesn't boast any B-list celebrities reporting on a big ball dropping down a pole, but the Songkran Festival in the Thai section of Los Angeles draws some quarter of a million people. This year, 22 South Florida Thai restaurants are offering dining specials during what is dubbed Thai Restaurant Week (April 13-19). It is part of a promotion being organized by the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Commerce's Department of Export Promotion, in conjunction with the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Ridiculously Long Titles. Also participating are Thai Bev, makers of Chang Beer, and Mekhong, the Spirit of Thailand (made mostly of sugar cane and rice infused with herbs and spices). Both drinks will be available at the restaurants taking part, although Mekhong only in those with full liquor licenses.
Besides interesting elixirs, Thai Restaurant Week will feature dinner discounts, Thai entertainment, and a chance to win a trip for two to Thailand. Keep reading to find out the 22 South Florida participating restaurants (but before we go, happy new year to our Thai readers):
Siam Bistro - Miami
Siam Palace Thai Restaurant - Miami
Sea Siam - Miami
Panya - Miami Beach
Thai House II - N. Miami Beach
Siam Square - N. Miami Beach
Tamarind Thai Restaurant - Miami Beach
Roy's Sushi Thai and Grills - Port St. Lucie
Bangkok - Vero Beach
Anny's - Coral Springs
Tub Tim Thai - Lake Worth
Thai Thai - Plantation
Sala Thai - Jupiter
Coco Asian Bistro - Fort Lauderdale
Bangkok Palace Cuisine - Lauderdale Lakes
Thai Bistro - Venice
Orchid Thai Cuisine - Winter Park
Bangkok Ocha - West Palm Beach
Ploy Thai - Brandon
Soong Thai - Ocoee
Tamarind Asian Grill & Sushi Bar - Deerfield Beach
Tee-Jay Thai Sushi - Coral Springs
Thai World - Pembroke Pines
Bangkok Bangkok II - Coral Gables