Phuket provincial authorities are investigating an Israeli-owned restaurant in Patong following complaints that Thai customers were refused service and denied entry.
Pol. Capt. Khetarat Chansilp, Phuket's Deputy Governor and Acting Security Advisor to the Ministry of Interior, led an inspection of the venue and other local businesses, after the reports emerged on Wednesday, 19 August 2026.
Ownership and management under review
The inspections forms part of a wider government effort to regulate foreign-owned businesses and check that they comply with Thai law.
Officials are reviewing the restaurant's ownership arrangements, management practices and supporting documents. They will assess whether it is operating legally, including whether Thai nationals may have been used as nominees to conceal foreign control.
Nominee business arrangements are prohibited under Thai law, according to the authorities, who said such structures can undermine fair competition.
No outcome of the investigation has yet been announced. Phuket officials said legal action would follow if breaches are confirmed.
Equal treatment warning
Khetarat said businesses must serve customers equally regardless of nationality. He warned against venues operating exclusively for foreign clients.
He also instructed officers to keep watch on establishments advertising mainly in Hebrew or appearing to target international visitors only.
Authorities said the wider objective is to protect consumer rights and public confidence in Phuket's tourism industry. They also said enforcement was intended to maintain Thailand's image as a welcoming destination for both Thai people and overseas visitors.
Picture courtesy of Phuket Express
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21 August 2026
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