A A new Thai cafe and takeaway in Caerphilly town centre has been “blessed” by three Thai monks.
Thai Tulip, which is on Pentrebane Street, opened in May and serves authentic Thai food.
Lawrence Tulip, who co-owns the business, said: “It’s Thai tradition to have a blessing for a new house or business. It can bring good luck.”
The monks, who come from a Thai temple in Swansea, visited the business on June 27 to mark the official opening of the business.
As part of the opening, the owners held a buffet, with almost 40 people attending.
Mr Tulip said: “It went very well, it was very traditional and I think everyone enjoyed it.
“In Thailand, it is tradition to feed your guests. The monks were very appreciative for their food.”
Since the business opened, Mr Tulip says they have had “a very good reception and many positive reviews online”.
Mr Tulip added: “The idea of opening a Thai food place wasn’t something that was with us for very long.
“But we knew there wasn’t anywhere that specialised in Thai Food in this area, so once we found suitable premises we got started.”
Mr Tulip’s wife, Siyapat, who co-owns the business, is originally from Thailand and used to work in a street restaurant in the capital, Bangkok.
Caerphilly County Borough was once home to the only Thai Buddhist temple in Wales.
The Sanghapadipa Temple, which is no longer open, used to be in Rhymney.