The American Dream at Le Isaan Restaurant Bangkok

When I dine out it is usually all about the food for me. Of course I like beautiful plates and impeccable service, but I’d trade those in for superior tasting food anyday. There is a new facet of eating I became aware of on my Bangkok dining expedition, supporting very special owners.

A western blogger from Northern Thailand put me in touch with Lek. Lek is an exceptional soul with a golden heart and an inspirational story that reaffirmed my belief in the real potential of upward mobility, aka “The American Dream“. Lek owns an adorable restaurant called Le Isaan Restaurant, as well as a massage parlor and a guest house. Isaan is the Northeast region of Thailand and also the name for the food that stems from it.

I met Lek after I had eaten his great food and was so moved by his story. Lek moved to Bangkok from Issan at age 17 and had to sleep on the streets for months doing whatever he could to survive. This included scrounging, collecting bottles, eating out of the trash… Within a couple of months he managed to get a job at the Mandarin Oriental and began working his way up the chain to management positions. The Mandarin Oriental paid for him to attend school in Switzerland studying hospitality. He then also worked for The Peninsula and a bunch of other distinguished hotels.

After saving up money he found an old dilapidated building in the up and coming area of Sathorn and decided to make a restaurant dedicated to his hometown cuisine. Lek accomplished the fabled rags to riches, fight against all odds, The American Dream story.

Lek is a beautiful man who exudes an abundance of light, love and appreciation. He wants to start a program to help people who are struggling on the streets like he was become successful. I was so touched by this story and realized at that moment that I want to make a conscious effort to support and eat at places where the owners are truly special people.

Besides the extraordinary Lek, Le Isaan Restaurant is a special spot. The ambiance is inviting, the food and drinks are great and you will feel so amazing supporting and meeting Lek.

Start with the Mango Fizz which is a delightful libation with mango, prosecco and mint.

One of their signature dishes are incredible Pork Balls Isaan Style that are utter perfection! Crispy shell yet soft and juicy inside with a delectable seasoning. About 6 balls come per order, so I recommend doing 2 orders.

The Spicy Papaya Salad is a very typical Isaan dish that is awesome if you can handle the spice. My America mouth was a tad overpowered by it.

Another magnificent dish was the Spicy Minced Pork. The heat was mild and the basil, garlic, oyster and fish sauce flavors were outstanding.

Dining at Le Isaan Restaurant will leave your belly and soul smiling wide. Seize this rare opportunity to meet Lek and support a gentle and blessed soul that defied odds to achieve The American Dream to flourish and share his cuisine and The Thailand Dream with us. Thank you Lek!

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