Thai Garden: How Fuengirola neighbours became family

When Ying and her family opened Thai Garden on Calle del Castillo, their ambition was to bring authentic Thai cuisine and warm hospitality to the Costa del Sol. What they didn’t expect was to discover a community so ready to welcome them.

“We came here wanting to share the food and hospitality of Thailand, but we’ve discovered something just as special: the kindness of the people around us,” Ying explained.

The pedestrianised Calle del Castillo provides a wonderfully relaxed setting. With no passing traffic or vehicle fumes, families can enjoy their meals while children play nearby, perhaps kicking a football around. Dogs are welcome too, adding to the street’s friendly, informal atmosphere.

A helping hand on Calle del Castillo

Opening a restaurant in Spain brings plenty of challenges, particularly when it comes to licences, regulations and navigating unfamiliar paperwork. Fortunately, Thai Garden’s neighbours have been there to lend a hand.

“The people at Tomate Algo have been absolutely wonderful. They have their own busy tapas bar to run, yet they’ve always found time to help us understand Spanish paperwork and find our feet. That sort of generosity is something you never forget,” Ying said.

The Old London Pub has regularly helped by accepting deliveries when Thai Garden is closed, while the friendly team at Pueblo Pizza have been equally welcoming, always happy to offer advice or practical assistance.

Then there’s El Fuente de Orinoco, right next door. When Thai Garden was struggling to get its television working in time for the World Cup, their neighbours stepped in and helped save the day.

“These things might sound small, but when you’re building a business, they’re enormous. Nobody has ever made us feel like competitors. We’re simply neighbours helping neighbours,” Ying explained.

Growing together

Thai Garden itself has grown considerably since opening. What began with just two chefs and one waitress has developed into a team of five chefs and five waitresses, reflecting the restaurant’s growing popularity. Despite that growth, the family’s philosophy remains unchanged.

“In Thailand, food is about bringing people together. It’s about sharing, conversation, laughter and making everyone feel welcome. We’ve discovered exactly that same spirit here on Calle del Castillo,” Ying explained.

For the family behind Thai Garden, success is about more than serving authentic Thai dishes. It’s about becoming part of a neighbourhood where people look out for one another, celebrate each other’s successes and lend a hand when needed.

“To all our wonderful neighbours, thank you for making us feel at home.” («A todos nuestros maravillosos vecinos: gracias por hacernos sentir como en casa».)

Thai Garden Fuengirola is located on pedestrianised Calle del Castillo and is open seven days a week, from 1pm to 10.30pm. Authentic Thai cuisine is available to enjoy in the restaurant, on its outdoor terrace, or at home through Glovo and Uber Eats.