Kanlaya Palivan opened Lao Garden in West Berkeley to honor and share Laotian cuisine, which is often overshadowed by its neighbor Thailand. Growing up in Kansas and experiencing both American and traditional Lao food, she recognized the importance of celebrating her heritage through cuisine. Palivan aims to educate diners about Laotian culture and food, which involves a unique balance of flavors. Despite the rich and diverse nature of Laotian cuisine, many Lao restaurant owners prefer to associate with Thai food due to its wider recognition and popularity.
When Palivan opened Lao Garden, her goal was to educate people about Laotian culture and its diverse food offerings, often overlooked in favor of Thai cuisine.
Despite its vibrant and multi-layered flavors, Laotian cuisine is overshadowed by its neighbor Thailand, as many Lao restaurant owners feel it’s more profitable to identify as Thai.
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