Chon Buri busts unlicensed Argentinian steakhouse

Chon Buri authorities conducted a raid on September 4 at El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse, an upscale restaurant located near the Dolphin Roundabout in North Pattaya. The operation involved multiple law enforcement agencies and resulted in the arrest of six Myanmar nationals and a Slovakian manager for violating Thai labor laws and regulations.

The restaurant, situated inside a community mall, was found to be employing foreigners in specialized roles that their work permits did not permit. Additionally, the establishment lacked the necessary municipal licenses for food service and storage. The Slovakian manager, identified as Tomas, claimed the business was still awaiting permit approval, but official records showed no such license had been granted.

The raid also uncovered serious hygiene issues, such as worn food containers, overflowing bins, and toxic cleaning chemicals near food preparation areas. Food samples were collected for laboratory analysis. All six Myanmar workers and Tomas have been detained and will face legal proceedings at Pattaya City Police Station for their alleged infractions.