On Friday 2 November 2012, His Excellency Mr. Nonsiri Buranasiri, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of South Africa delivered opening remarks at the 'Thai Kitchen to South Africa Gala Dinner' at Bree Studios in the City of Cape Town. During his remarks to over 100 guests at the Dinner, the Thai Ambassador informed that the purpose of the Dinner was to give exposure to Thai food and products in South Africa, as well as highlight the popularity of Thai cuisine across the globe.

The Dinner featured classical and modern Thai cultural performances, a cooking demonstration by Chef Kent from the popular Kitima restaurant, as well as South African wines paired with Thai dishes.