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Our Story

The Heart & Soul of
Siam Golden

From a humble family kitchen in Chiang Mai to the vibrant streets of Portland — discover the passion, tradition, and love that bring every dish to life.

Explore Our Journey
The Journey

A Legacy of Flavor & Family

Three generations of culinary tradition, carried across oceans and lovingly shared with our community.

1962

Roots in Chiang Mai

Grandmother Somchai opens a small street-side stall in the Night Bazaar, serving her legendary Khao Soi to locals and travelers alike. Her secret coconut curry paste recipe becomes the talk of the city.

1987

A Mother's Dream

Niran Malakul, Somchai's daughter, expands the family business into a full restaurant in Bangkok's Sukhumvit district. She introduces royal Thai recipes passed down through generations, earning a loyal following.

2008

Across the Pacific

Arun Malakul, the third generation, moves to Portland with his mother's recipes and a dream. He spends two years sourcing the finest local ingredients while staying true to authentic Thai techniques.

2010

Siam Golden Is Born

The first Siam Golden opens its doors on Hawthorne Boulevard. With just twelve tables and a tiny kitchen, Arun and his wife Siri welcome Portland with the same warmth his grandmother offered in Chiang Mai.

2018

Recognition & Growth

Named "Best Thai Restaurant in Oregon" by Pacific Northwest Dining, Siam Golden expands to a larger location, adding a garden patio and an open kitchen where guests can watch the art of Thai cooking unfold.

2024

A New Chapter

Today, Siam Golden continues to honor the Malakul family legacy — blending time-honored recipes with seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients, all served with the gracious hospitality that has defined us for over six decades.

Meet the Family

The Faces Behind Siam Golden

Passionate artisans dedicated to sharing the true taste of Thailand with every plate.

Chef Arun Malakul — Head Chef & Founder

Arun Malakul

Head Chef & Founder

Born in Chiang Mai and trained in Bangkok's finest kitchens, Arun brings over 25 years of culinary mastery. He personally selects every spice and tastes every curry before it leaves the kitchen. His grandmother's recipes remain at the heart of every dish.

Siri Malakul — General Manager & Co-Founder

Siri Malakul

General Manager & Co-Founder

Siri is the warm soul who greets every guest like family. A former hospitality director at a Michelin-starred Bangkok hotel, she designed Siam Golden's renowned service philosophy — where every diner feels like they've been welcomed into a Thai home.

Kiet Suwan — Pastry Chef

Kiet Suwan

Pastry Chef & Sous Chef

Kiet discovered his love for Thai desserts in his grandmother's kitchen in Phuket. He trained at Le Cordon Bleu before returning to his roots. His mango sticky rice and coconut pandan crème brûlée have become legendary among Portland food lovers.

Our Philosophy

The Principles That Guide Us

Every decision at Siam Golden is rooted in these core values — the foundation of authentic Thai cooking and hospitality.

🌿

Freshness Above All

We visit local farmers' markets daily, selecting only the freshest herbs, vegetables, and proteins. Our curry pastes are pounded by hand each morning — never from a jar. True flavor begins with pristine ingredients.

🤲

Hospitality as Heritage

In Thailand, the word "greng jai" embodies thoughtful consideration for others. We carry this spirit into every interaction — anticipating needs before they're spoken, treating every guest with genuine warmth and respect.

🔥

Balance in Every Bite

Thai cuisine is a delicate dance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Our chefs train for years to master this harmony — ensuring each dish achieves the perfect equilibrium that awakens every corner of the palate.

🌏

Sustainability & Community

We partner with Pacific Northwest farms that share our commitment to sustainable agriculture. Our seafood is responsibly sourced, and we compost over 90% of our kitchen waste — because caring for the land is an act of gratitude.

📜

Tradition with Integrity

Our recipes span three generations — many dating back over 60 years. We honor these traditions faithfully, while thoughtfully adapting to modern palates. Innovation never comes at the cost of authenticity.

❤️

Cooked with Love

Above technique and ingredient, we believe the most essential element is love. Every dish carries the care of hands that respect the food, the culture, and the guest who will share it with loved ones.