What country were you born in (if first generation, where is your family from?), and how long have you lived in Cleveland? 

I was born in Bangkok, Thailand. I came to the United States in 2000 and I have lived in Cleveland for 16 years. 

What is the name and location of your business, and a brief description?   

Thai Thai is a restaurant in Lakewood. We serve traditional Thai “Bangkok Street Food” and Bubble Tea. 

Lastly, please provide any social media handles that we can add! 

Instagram: @thaithailakewood
Facebook: Thai Thai 

Tell me about the inception of your business! Why did you choose to open Thai Thai? Take me through the creative process! 

My family has been in the restaurant business for a long time. I wanted to create something different- yet modern, easy, and fun. I decided to introduce Bangkok street food to Clevelanders. Every dish on our menu is very flavorful and authentic. These are the types of dishes that my mother makes for us at home. 

The pioneers and supporters of International Women’s Day believe that “from challenges come change.”: What has been the largest challenge in building your business? 

My biggest challenge was to give the community unique Thai Bangkok street food in hopes that they would enjoy the food that my mother and I had served them. Another challenge was moving into a brand new, larger location during the early days of a pandemic. 

How does your business enhance your community? What does it introduce to people, or what can people learn from it? 

Lakewood/Cleveland is a very diverse city. I always introduce different aspects of Thai and Asian cultures to my community. I believe in supporting other local small businesses, as they are owned and operated by my neighbors. We love and care about the well-being of our community and those in it. 

Additional info: I am the founder of Unknown Cleveland on Instagram. This page where I introducing and putting a spotlight on the creative and inspiring people that make our city a better place to live in.