Authorities in Chon Buri raided El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse in North Pattaya on September 4, detaining a Slovakian manager and six Myanmar nationals over alleged labour, licensing and hygiene breaches. The restaurant, near the Dolphin Roundabout, was targeted after officials received several tip-offs alleging illegal foreign employment and unlicensed trading. The operation was ordered by Chon Buri governor Naris Niramaiwong and involved Bang Lamung district officials, the Provincial Employment Office, Immigration police and public health inspectors. Workers found in kitchen and bar roles Officers found six Myanmar nationals working at the restaurant: four as kitchen chefs and two behind the bar. Their work permits were reportedly registered for general manual labour rather than skilled positions including cooking and bartending. Thai labour regulations restrict foreign workers from taking certain occupations reserved for Thai nationals, while work permit holders must work within their approved role. The restaurant's 40-year-old Slovakian manager, identified only as Tomas, was also detained. He told officers the business was awaiting permit approval, but officials said their records showed that no municipal licence for food service or food storage had ever been issued. Running an unlicensed food establishment can carry a prison term of up to six months, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both. Hygiene concerns raised during inspection Public health inspectors also reported several kitchen hygiene problems, including worn food containers, overflowing bins and toxic cleaning chemicals kept beside food preparation areas. Food samples were seized for laboratory testing. Tomas and the six Myanmar workers were taken to Pattaya City Police Station, where they face formal legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? 7 September 2026
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