Conversations with Nobphon Jantree

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nobphon Jantree.

Hi Nobphon, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Chalong Thai Eatery is a small, cozy Thai bistro located in Midtown, Houston. We have been open for 10 months. The food is known for its bold authentic Thai flavor and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, despite its small size. It is perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner.
My passion for cooking was inspired by my father. He was a chef and had a restaurant. He first started cooking while living in San Jose. As I learned from him, I would test my skills by cooking for my friends. They loved my food, but I had never considered cooking as a career. During COVID, I began cooking part time and selling homemade food to friends. At that time there was a huge demand for authentic home cooked Thai food. Most of the food I made was either completely different or could not be found in the majority of Thai restaurants in the U.S. The feedback from customers was overwhelmingly positive. Then, I decided to move to Houston to work with my sister and help my family. I spent that time helping her refine and adjust recipes.
When I felt confident in my skills, I decided to branch out on my own with Cloud kitchen which was delivery only. Many of my customers at the time expressed their desire to have a dine in experience and after careful consideration, I opened a storefront which is now Chalong Thai Eatery.

I personally recommend the Crispy Pork, Pad See Ew, and Pad Ka Prow. Come try it! You’ll love the bold flavors that transport you to Thailand.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
New city
Finding the right space within my budget that has good foot and road traffic
Finding and developing relationships with suppliers
I only had so much savings and most restaurants operate at a loss for at least the first two years if they make it all.
Language barriers, I speak English but I am not that proficient.
Being a woman owned business, we have had issues with local unhoused individuals.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Now, I am proud to be the owner and chef of Chalong Thai Eatery.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor and building a network happened through relationships and my experiences. I learned by helping in the kitchens, ask when I have a question, try to pay attention when they try to teach and being open to get the feedback

Pricing:

• 14-22
• 20-30

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chalongeatery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chalongthaieatery/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/chalong-thai-eatery-houston?osq=Chalong+Thai+Eatery