Michelin has announced plans to expand its coverage of Thailand’s dining landscape beyond Bangkok, and into Phuket and Phang-nga.

Following the debut edition of the first Michelin guide for Thailand last year, the 2019 edition will explore new territories in southern Thailand, popular with tourists.

“In addition to world-famous beaches, the variety of cuisine, dining experiences and exceptional hospitality services are the major attractions of both Andaman cities,” said Segsarn Trai-Ukos, secretary general of Michelin East Asia and Australia in a statement.

“The local cuisine in Phuket is distinctive and flavorful with a wonderful blend of influences from India, Malaysia, China, and the Peranakan ethnic group. Basically, it truly offers an infinite variety of flavors worth discovering.”

In the inaugural Michelin guide for Bangkok, inspectors bestowed a star to street food vendor Jay Fai, a local institution with a 70-year history, popular for its crab omelettes, curries and dry congee, prepared behind homemade charcoal stoves.

The 2019 guide will be released at the end of the year. JB

LOOK: Windsor Castle chef offers glimpse of royal wedding menu