About us
Chef Bia Hawang's journey to becoming a celebrated chef at Lamaii is a testament to her deep connection to Thai culinary traditions and unwavering passion for innovation. Born into a family where music and food intertwined, Bia spent her formative years immersed in both. Her love for cooking was nurtured while preparing meals for her family’s Thai classical music band, yet life took her in a different direction when she moved to the U.S. and spent nearly 20 years working as a bartender. It wasn’t until she met her husband, Bon, that she rediscovered her culinary calling, a path that would eventually lead to the creation of her beloved restaurant, Lamaii. Bia’s return to the kitchen came at a pivotal time. Together with Bon, who had valuable restaurant experience from Chada Thai, they opened their first restaurant, Lamoon. Despite the onset of the pandemic, which temporarily halted their plans, Bia embraced the opportunity to refine her skills. She spent those months perfecting her craft, experimenting with new techniques, and cultivating an appreciation for pairing Thai cuisine with wine. This combination would soon define the dining experience at Lamaii. Among the many dishes that define Bia’s culinary repertoire, her reinvention of Goong Chae Nam Pla stands out. With her dish, Salmon Noir, she replaced traditional shrimp with rich, sashimi-style king salmon, infusing Thai seafood sauce with a balance of soy and lemon juice and finishing it with the luxurious touch of white truffle oil. This dish, a modern take on tradition, embodies her creative approach to cooking, pushing boundaries while respecting the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine. At the heart of Chef Bia’s success is her commitment to fostering a collaborative and positive kitchen environment. Her leadership style emphasizes teamwork, treating her staff like family while maintaining clear expectations. She values creativity and consistency in equal measure, ensuring that every dish served at Lamaii reflects innovation and authenticity. Her dedication to continuous learning and improvement is also mirrored in how she mentors her team, frequently sending them to wine classes and encouraging collective feedback. Chef Bia’s ultimate goal is to elevate Thai cuisine by preserving traditional recipes or crafting innovative new dishes that blend local and seasonal ingredients. She seeks to teach the richness of Thai food culture, inspiring others to appreciate the art behind each dish. Lamaii is more than just a restaurant; it is the culmination of her journey, passion, and vision, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.