Menu Theft at Kaithong Original Sparks Legal Action Against Foreign Restaurateurs
BANGKOK — May 5, 2025 — Acclaimed Thai eatery Kaithong Original is pursuing legal action after two foreign nationals allegedly stole its menu during a recent lunch visit, raising concerns about intellectual property theft and ethics in the restaurant industry.
On April 29, CCTV footage from one of the restaurant’s branches captured what staff described as a premeditated act. According to Kaithong Original’s official statement posted on May 2, the male customer meticulously photographed every page of the food and dessert menus using his phone. His companion, a woman, then slipped the in-house menus into her bag before leaving, while the man remained seated, appearing fully aware of the theft.
Professional Ethics Breached
Following an internal investigation, Kaithong Original identified the man from the payment receipt as a restaurateur based in Indonesia, operating multiple Thai food establishments under different brand names.
In a strongly worded statement, the restaurant condemned the act as a serious violation of professional ethics and blatant disrespect for intellectual property, particularly disturbing because it was committed by someone in the same industry.
“This kind of behavior is not just about stealing property — it’s about stealing the soul of a business,” the statement read.
Legal Consequences
The restaurant has filed an official police report, and both criminal and civil proceedings have been initiated. Under Thai law, the unauthorized removal of property and intellectual property infringement can carry serious legal consequences, particularly if done with intent to reproduce or commercially exploit the stolen material.
Kaithong Original is urging the individuals involved to return the menus immediately and accept responsibility for their actions.
A Broader Industry Message
The incident has sparked conversation among hospitality professionals, with Kaithong Original using the moment to underscore the importance of ethics and mutual respect within the competitive food and beverage industry.
“We hope this incident serves as a reminder that mutual respect is the foundation of professionalism and must never be overlooked,” the restaurant concluded.
