GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — More than a year in the making, Pennapa (Mimi) Wicsian and her husband, Eakkasak Kaosa-ard, are nearing closer to opening Thai Table, soon to be Grand Rapids' newest spot for authentic Thai cuisine.
Moving to Grand Rapids from Bangkok, Thailand last December, Wicsian says their journey began even earlier, taking them over a year to complete the process to receive their E-2 Visas.
Sitting inside their restaurant at 950 Wealthy St. SE, Wicsian says she has been coming there everyday, largely renovating the space themselves, as they are now waiting for the final pieces to soon welcome hungry customers.
"I feel good because it takes all effort for this business," said Wicsian. "When I see it go up and I see success, it feels so good. Like I said, the effort is more than 100 percent. My hands, my mind, my brain, everything is pushed towards here."
Wicsian says they learned the opportunity through loved ones of theirs who are also local business owners in Grand Rapids, and says their corner shop on Wealthy and Diamond is the perfect spot for them.
Their menu will include various traditional Thai dishes, including dishes popular in the U.S., such as Pad Thai, made from recipes passed down from Wicsian's mother and aunt, with their chef also moving to Grand Rapids from Thailand.
They also plan to serve sushi, and Milk Tea.
"The exciting moment is the first day that we open," said Wicsian. "When the first customer is coming, that is the best moment."
Aside from the physical challenges of opening their restaurant, Wicsian says she has been learning English over the past year, but still encounters challenges when speaking with others due to language barriers, and some people struggling to understand her accent.
With help from her husband, and their growing network of friends and partners through the Grand Rapids chamber, Wicsian they have been able to succeed even with each challenge.
"I’m new here, I don’t know everything about Grand Rapids. How I feel? Oh my god, it means a lot to me, every friend helped me, and it means a lot to me," said Wicsian.
Now anticipating their soft opening to take place next month, the couple is eager to share tastes of their home, with members of their new West Michigan home.
"If you ever go to Thailand, come and talk to us about Thailand. But if you never go to Thailand, or you like Thailand, or Thai food, then come and taste the authentic Thai food here," said Wicsian.
