This beloved Toronto restaurant will transform into a pop-up inspired by street markets in Thailand

Explore the wonders and flavours of Thailand at this one-day-only Thai pop-up market inside one of Toronto’s beloved restaurants this month.

PAI will transform into a special Thai market that is inspired by those found on the streets of Thailand – Songkran Market. Join them on Saturday, April 15, and enjoy an afternoon of shopping from the best local vendors and trying some delicious Songkran treats from the PAI kitchen.

You can expect to find local artisans and retailers selling vintage clothing, jewellery, handmade soaps, candles, caricature drawings, and more. As for the food, expect to find Jackfruit Salad, Yum Kanom Jin (Rice Noodle Salad), Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Hock on Rice), Khao Mun Gai (Thai-Style Chicken Rice), and Papaya Salad.

Along with that, check out the exciting display of Thailand’s national sport, Muay Thai boxing, demonstrated by Canada’s first Muay Thai school Siam No.1. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Experience a traditional Thai massage at the pop up too!

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“Family is everything to me,” said Executive Chef Nuit Regular. “Songkran is a time of year where families return home and get together to celebrate the new year. Many of the foods we’re serving at our Songkran Market are foods that I grew up eating in Northern Thailand during the new year and they are symbolic of bringing good fortune. These are traditions of my Thai culture that I want to keep alive and share with my community and my family and friends here in Canada. It’s a chance for us to come together and celebrate with one another.”

According to organizers, Songkran is also known as the Water Festival, where water plays a significant role, representing the washing away of bad luck and energy from the year before to make way for a new start.

“As part of this deeply symbolic tradition, guests will be invited to pour water on a Buddha statue as a sign of respect and to invite good fortune for the new year,” reads the event.

All net proceeds made from the Songkran Market Thai food stations will be donated to sponsor ten young students in northern Thailand to attend school for one year. Additional contributions to the donation boxes will also be accepted.

“It signifies a fresh beginning for the new year,” said Shef Nuit. “I want to continue this tradition and give back to my community by helping young students in need to attend school and assist them with buying new books, school supplies, and school uniforms.”

Make sure to check out all they have to offer at PAI Downtown this April 15th. As for the restaurant, it will remain open for take-out dine-in lunch service though indoor seating will be limited.

Songkran Market

When: April 15th from 11 AM to 3 PM
Where: PAI Toronto – 18 Duncan Street