Much of what we tend to think of as Thai food is actually a North American mash-up of Vietnamese, Chinese and Thai dishes that has only a passing resemblance to the traditional cuisine of the country.
Sam Chanhao, who at an early age was introduced to the complex flavours and beautiful colours of authentic Thai food by his mother, thought Canadians deserved better and he opened his own restaurant in Calgary in 1989.
Sam named his restaurant Thai Sa-on (meaning ‘craving delicate and beautiful food’) and began serving authentic Thai cuisine based on his mother’s traditional family recipes. More than 25 years later, Sam is still passionate about introducing Canadians to real Thai food.
With the 2015 opening of Tuk Tuk Thai, the flagship of a new takeout concept, on 17th Ave SW in Calgary, Sam is taking his mission to the next level. The focus at Tuk Tuk Thai is ‘fast and flavourful’ featuring authentic Thai dishes handmade with natural ingredients on site, in a real kitchen.
Chef Chalermphon Limsrijamrern, Phon, moved over from his duties as Head Chef at Thai Sa-on to lead Tuk Tuk Thai. Working together, Sam, Phon and their team designed a menu for fast takeout and delivery based on the most popular dishes from Thai Sa-on.
Established in 1960, by Mr. Ng Kia Cheng, a first generation Chinese immigrant, Siam Express originally operated from a Bangkok rented shophouse with just four employees. As the commercial airline business grew, so the organization expanded rapidly, and, whilst still 100% family owned, the company now employs over 50 personnel in Thailand.
Providing a full range of travel management services, Siam Express, operating from three strategically located branches, is currently one of the oldest and most trusted travel companies in Thailand.
Our services also extend worldwide through partnership agreements with Global Travel Companies and independent local operators.
After over 50 years of operation, high standards of service remain our key motivation and nothing pleases us more than to see the outcome of successful business missions or perfect once in a lifetime vacations.
REGISTERED NAMES: Siam Express Travel Services Co., Ltd.
LOCATIONS: 3 owned corporate travel offices including one in Bangkok CBD.