Joey Piyaraj was born in a small town of Lampang, Thailand. He first came to the states at the age of 10. Joey's parents owned a thai restaurant in Long Beach California, and Joey grew up in the restaurant industry as a child. From 2003 to 2016, he worked in various positions as a dish washer, server, inventory manager, and cook. In 2017, Joey was offered to take over Kao Sarn Thai Restaurant. The previous owner and Joey are close friends, like brothers, and Joey accepted the offer.
Under Joey's leadership, he kept the same staff that has been with the restaurant for over 16 years. When I asked Joey if he had a message for future customers, he replied "Come try out the unique atmosphere and authentic thai food with some northern thai options." The restaurant has a zen-like calming atmosphere that will make you feel like you stepped away from the daily hustle and bustle. The food at Kao Sarn has bold flavors with a large range of food options for everyone (appetizers, salads, soups, currys, grilled items, seafood, noodles, and rice). The restaurant also serves beer, wine, sodas, and authentic thai teas. You will see a wide range of people eating here from out-of-town visitors, regulars, local workers from the area, and sail boat competitors from other countries. Joey's sister owns Tracy Thai Restaurant, located in Tracy California, and the restaurant industry has been in the family's blood line.
I asked Joey what he would be doing if it wasn't for this restaurant, he replied "If I wasn't here, it would be another restaurant. I can't see myself doing anything else, I am passionate about sharing my culture through food, and running a restaurant." Joey is a father of 2 children, and enjoys fishing, camping, and traveling. He often fishes locally walking distance from the restaurant during his breaks. Joey often travels back to Thailand once a year to visit family and friends.
If you're in search of an amazing restaurant with authentic bold flavors, and a unique ambiance as if you were in Thailand, look no further because you have arrived at Kao Sarn Thai Cuisine.
