I do wish that folks wouldn't go on about things they haven't a clue towards.

Skilled Western culinarians can surely acquire "legal" employment throughout the hospitality industries in Thailand.

You are so right. Numerous western chefs work here legally.

Top notch hotel managers and so on.

Not only culinary experts but also managers in "those" bars work with WP.

Ask Larry from Secrets Bar/Hotel in Pattaya whether he works without WP and get a big laughter.

Ask Rick from Babydolls and get another big laughter.

Do Larry and Rick own the establishments or a they paid workers. But yes anything is possible with the right connections or excellent skills.

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Larry does not own the bar. He is an employee and does the day to day job of keeping the bar afloat.

I don't know the details of ownership, I believe it is a consortium of US guys, one nicknamed "Carlsberg" (forget his real name).

I met Larry personally one time.

Neither does Rick from Babydolls. (One of) the owners calls himself Terry Lee (nickname?).

Rick is in the bar all the time. T.L. visits the bar from time to time, not working, just sometimes takes some "clean" party pictures.

Correction: Rick is Ricky!

You can see his picture on the website (not adequate to publish here). Look for Ricky's party pictures.

I like all the remarks, it's all about getting lucky sometimes and being at the right place at the right time. I like my chances. If not then I guess I'll just spend my days drinking at beer bars

Having lived and worked in Thailand for several years in the luxury hotel industry of course expats can get employment.

But you won't find expat waiters, barmen (unless upscale cocktail mixologist), low level cooks, chefs, room attendants, drivers or any rank and file positions. Some hotels may get a special concession for foreign language. Or you might find some on placement from their respective hospitality course. But other than that, no way. Especially in a free standing restaurants.

Judging by the original posters question it sounded like he was looking for some casual work while on vacation. That's why I said no.

Having lived and worked in Thailand for several years in the luxury hotel industry of course expats can get employment.

But you won't find expat waiters, barmen (unless upscale cocktail mixologist), low level cooks, chefs, room attendants, drivers or any rank and file positions. Some hotels may get a special concession for foreign language. Or you might find some on placement from their respective hospitality course. But other than that, no way. Especially in a free standing restaurants.

Judging by the original posters question it sounded like he was looking for some casual work while on vacation. That's why I said no.

I meant to say low level chefs. Sous, exec or specialist chefs can get permit. Also remember you cannot arrive in Thailand and get a permit. 3 month immigration B visa must be obtained outside the country first.