Dee began her career in the restaurant industry in her early 20s in Bangkok, apprenticing under her brother, who co-owned a Michelin-starred restaurant at the time. She comes from a family of restaurateurs, with four family-owned establishments currently thriving in Seattle, all of which remain well-known in the community.
Before marrying, Dee and her husband, Yak—who is also a chef—each owned and operated their own Thai restaurants in Bangkok. Over 16 years ago, they joined forces to open a successful joint establishment in Bangkok, @ 17 Garden Cafe, which they operated for more than seven years. Both Dee and Yak were often invited by various food networks to demonstrate their popular dishes on Thai television.
Driven by their deep-rooted passion for authentic Thai cuisine, Dee and Yak stepped in to save Original Rice Thai Cuisine from a family ownership breakdown over 10 years ago. When Dee relocated from Bangkok to California in 2015 to take over the restaurant, she gradually diversified the menu, enhancing the offerings with signature dishes like coconut Tom Yum noodles and Khao Soi—a yellow noodle dish in creamy coconut curry broth topped with crispy fried noodles, green onions, red onions, and lime.
In 2021, Dee and her husband opened Asiatique Eatery to further showcase their culinary craft and expertise. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant officially launched in January 2022. The success of Asiatique Eatery can be attributed to their dedication to bringing the best dishes from various Asian cuisines to local patrons, including Pho noodle soups, various ramen, and unique shave ice combinations that just melt in your mouth. Some of the most popular dishes at Asiatique Eatery—favorites from their Bangkok restaurant—include Woon Sen Pad Horapa, Spaghetti Kung Pao, Spaghetti Pad Kiew Wan, and Spaghetti Tom Yum.
Earlier this year, Asiatique Eatery was recognized with 2nd place in the Vegan Challenge West, which led to the addition of a dedicated Vegan Menu section at the restaurant.
For your culinary adventures check out their menu and website at www.asiatiqueonmain.com.
