Made in House: Houston is presented by The Speke Originals Network (https://www.spekepodcasting.com/spekeoriginals)

Souli Phaduangdet shares the path from her Fajita Fajita food truck to Sao Lao, a 28-seat Houston destination for Thai and Lao cooking. She explains her seven-year pursuit of boat noodles, Lao flavor profiles, post-COVID entrepreneurship, neighborhood support, and making adventurous food feel welcoming.

Learn more about Sao Lao: https://saolaothaicafehtx.com/

Key takeaways

1.Sao Lao is rooted in Souli Phaduangdet’s Thai and Lao heritage and her commitment to making guests feel at home.

2. Her signature boat noodles took seven years to perfect and contain approximately 40 ingredients.

3.The broth is a detailed, traditional preparation balancing savory, salty, acidic, sweet, and aromatic flavors.

4. Souli operated the Fajita Fajita food truck for roughly 10 years before opening a permanent restaurant.

5. Food-truck work was less expensive than a restaurant but brought weather, location, and daily-traffic uncertainty.

6. Sao Lao opened in 2021 after COVID, supported by a growing and loyal Garden Oaks-area community.

7. Souli introduces diners to Lao flavors while adjusting spice levels to keep the experience hospitable and enjoyable.

8. The restaurant helps spotlight Lao cuisine as distinct from Thai food while honoring the influences shared across Southeast Asia.

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