In January 2013, we traveled across Thailand, experiencing its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and incredible food. Our journey began in a small village near the Thailand-Laos border, where children eagerly played with us in the Mekong River. Life there was simple—fishing, farming, and trading sustained the locals, who thrived on fresh food and hard work, yet always made time to celebrate. Up north, we explored waterfalls, soaked in hot springs, and rode elephants through lush forests. Nights were spent in open huts, drifting to sleep with nature’s lullabies, surrounded by geckos, frogs, and the occasional scorpion.

If you love cold beer and hot sun, the south is where you want to be. Sandy beaches lined with swaying coconut trees led to island-hopping adventures, snorkeling with exotic fish, and beachfront dinners at sunset. Southern Thai cuisine reflected both local traditions and international influences—you could find everything from burgers to sushi, but one dish stood out above the rest: Pad Thai. Throughout our journey, we discovered the many variations of Pad Thai, from rustic countryside recipes to refined city versions, each offering a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, sour, nutty, and savory flavors. This obsession led to the birth of our culinary journey: House of Pad Thai.

Fast forward a decade, and life looks a little different now. We closed House of Pad Thai and opened Chopstix - Pan Asian Eatery, a full-service restaurant with a bar—something we never had before. We’re no longer just serving takeout; now, we can pour our guests a cocktail, watch them enjoy a lingering meal, and share in their stories. Our three kids, now in school, are growing up in the heart of the restaurant, just like we are. They do homework at the corner table, sneak extra bites of their favorite dishes, and remind us daily why we love what we do. These days, our adventure isn’t across the world—it’s right here at Chopstix. We end every evening with a family dinner at the restaurant before heading home to wind down. It’s a different kind of journey, but one that feels just as special. After all, we are finally home. ❤