Bangkok’s famous Michelin-starred restaurant Raan Jay Fai is under scrutiny after a tourist was charged 4,000 baht (S$160) for a crab omelette listed at 1,500 baht (S$60) on the menu. The incident, reported by London-based Thai YouTuber Peachii, has sparked outrage and prompted a government investigation.
Peachii, who has 1.6 million followers, shared her experience on X on August 15, explaining that she had ordered the restaurant’s renowned crab omelette, expecting the menu price of 1,500 baht. However, the final bill came to 4,000 baht due to the use of premium crab meat—something she had not requested or been informed about in advance. She highlighted that while the dish was delicious, the unexpected price adjustment left her feeling misled.
On her posts, Peachii questioned the practice of altering ingredients without notifying customers and charging higher prices than listed. Many online commenters echoed her concern, noting that restaurants should clearly communicate any changes that could affect pricing. Some even questioned the high cost for a dish that, while special, could be prepared at home.
Thailand’s Commerce Minister Jatuporn Buruspat has instructed the Department of Internal Trade to investigate whether Raan Jay Fai had overcharged the customer illegally. Overcharging or failing to display correct prices could result in fines of up to 10,000 baht each, according to the Bangkok Post. The minister emphasised that trust between customers and businesses is essential for sustainability.
Officials visited the restaurant on August 18 to conduct checks, but the restaurant was closed at the time. Raan Jay Fai, which earned its Michelin star in 2018, has hosted notable visitors including Jack Ma, Ed Sheeran, and Blackpink’s Lisa. The restaurant is named after its chef Jay Fai, who is widely recognised for her signature crab omelette and distinctive cooking attire, including a beanie, goggles, and blue gloves.
This case highlights the challenges Michelin-starred restaurants face in balancing premium ingredients with transparent pricing, especially when serving international tourists. It also underscores the growing importance of clear communication in the culinary industry to maintain customer trust.