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Japanese Chef Shuts Ramen Shop in Thailand Over Work Permit Issue

snoop1130
· 195 views

A Japanese chef has temporarily closed his ramen shop in Samut Prakan, Thailand, after a work permit issue was uncovered following its viral success. The popular ramen shop, Kham Sanya Kub Moo Tua Nan, gained attention on social media after a positive review in the Ramen Lover Association of Thailand Facebook group. The shop, operated by the Japanese owner for eight months, is located at the Bangchak petrol station branch on Srinakarin Road.

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The review, which highlighted the shop’s unique name and high-quality ramen, went viral, attracting over 2,500 reactions and nearly 1,000 shares. As more patrons visited and shared their experiences, immigration police conducted a raid on April 20. A customer present during the raid recounted on Facebook how immigration officers arrived to question the chef regarding his work permit.

The chef, unable to produce a work permit, voluntarily accompanied the officers to the immigration office. This incident forced the shop’s closure, leaving approximately 10 customers unable to enjoy their meals that day. Despite the abrupt closure, many customers expressed disappointment and hope for the shop’s reopening.

On the shop’s Instagram, the chef announced the temporary closure, effective April 21, promising to update customers on future plans. Details about any legal proceedings or penalties were not shared. However, the announcement indicated a willingness to resolve the issue and reopen the shop as soon as possible.

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image.png  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 21 Apr 2026

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    ukrules Star Member

    ukrules

    Advanced Member

    That's the end of him then

    ikke1959 Diamond Member

    ikke1959

    Advanced Member

    He should have hired 3 Thais first before he can apply for a workpermit.. The outdated laws are stilling holding back the going forward of this country. The immigration was probably triggered by his success, so it must be pulled down.

    0ffshore360 Gold Member

    0ffshore360

    Advanced Member

    Michelin rated? Bangchak Petrol Station! New rubber while you eat?

    Sounds charming.

    Briggsy Diamond Member

    Briggsy

    Advanced Member

    I seem to see this more and more. Foreigners openly working as chefs and serving customers. Years ago, it was unheard of. I am guessing most of them do have work permits. However, I thought serving customers was prohibited. Obviously not.

    This guy didn't even have a work permit. That's really chancing it.

    jacko45k Star Member

    jacko45k

    Advanced Member
    5 hours ago, Briggsy said:

    I seem to see this more and more. Foreigners openly working as chefs and serving customers. Years ago, it was unheard of. I am guessing most of them do have work permits. However, I thought serving customers was prohibited. Obviously not.

    This guy didn't even have a work permit. That's really chancing it.

    Oh I saw it quite often many year ago in Pattaya.....A fine line being drawn.

    Bagwain Silver Member

    Bagwain

    Advanced Member
    14 hours ago, ikke1959 said:

    He should have hired 3 Thais first before he can apply for a workpermit.. The outdated laws are stilling holding back the going forward of this country. The immigration was probably triggered by his success, so it must be pulled down.

    4 Thai's per work permit for us aliens from the west. However neighbouring countries I believe less.

    ikke1959 Diamond Member

    ikke1959

    Advanced Member
    1 hour ago, Bagwain said:

    4 Thai's per work permit for us aliens from the west. However neighbouring countries I believe less.

    Indeed, with these laws, how can you ever apply for a workpermit??? Laws should be updated instead of protecting all jobs and hurdles...

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