NAKHON RATCHASIMA, THAILAND – A wild elephant damaged a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant near Khao Yai National Park during a nighttime search for food.
Early-morning visit at Penlaos
The elephant appeared in the Pak Chong district at around 4 a.m. at the Penlaos restaurant on Thanarat Road in Tambon Moo See, according to local reports. Before reaching the entrance, the animal rummaged through a fruit stall in front of the restaurant. Shelves, fixtures and other hardware were torn down or damaged as it searched for food.
Biang Lek, a familiar presence outside the park
Residents in the area knew the elephant as Biang Lek, an animal said to wander beyond the boundaries of Khao Yai National Park on a regular basis. Local reports stated that Biang Lek often went in search of food outside the protected area. According to these accounts, the elephant may have developed a “taste” for human food, increasing the likelihood of such visits.
Why elephants are drawn to restaurants
Around Khao Yai National Park, conflicts had been occurring for years because wild animals found easily accessible food along roadsides, in settlements and at roadside stalls. Fruit stands and open kitchens in particular attracted animals, as smells and food waste offered a quick source of calories. This availability reinforced the animals’ behavior and encouraged repeat visits.
Penlaos and its Bib Gourmand recognition
Penlaos was described as a popular restaurant serving Isan cuisine from northeastern Thailand. Several years ago, the Michelin Guide awarded the venue the Bib Gourmand distinction. The label signified good quality at a comparatively fair price. The company also operated additional Penlaos branches in Bangkok besides its location near Khao Yai.
Damage and impact on businesses and guests
By morning, visible damage to the entrance area and interior fittings could be seen, according to photos from around the restaurant. For businesses in the region, each such incident posed a risk to safety and daily operations. A single curious wild animal could turn a brief search for snacks into costly property damage within seconds.