Story
Establishing thai palate since 2005.
Indulge in the Culinary Treasures of Thailand at Le Cafe Siam: Thai Cuisine in Saint Thomas, Ontario. As you enter our restaurant, you're stepping into the heart of Thailand, where tradition meets compromise innovation. Our culinary endeavor is the creation of two Thai royal lineage brothers, James and Yoh, along with their Canadian wives, Megan and Grace.
We take pride in offering an exclusive experience, distinct from any other, where every dish is an authentic masterpiece: homemade and rare ingredients (from Holy Basil to Flower-scented Water) infuse each bite with the enchanting flavours of Thailand.
The ambiance at Le Cafe Siam is designed to immerse you in the rich and unique culture of a grand Thai royal estate, offering an atmosphere that reflects our warmth and heritage. Our family's youngest member, James and Megan's delightful toddler, adds a touch of noise charm to our restaurant, reminding us of the importance of preserving the traditions and flavours of Thailand for future generations.
Thank you for considering Le Cafe Siam as your dining destination. We're thrilled to share our rich heritage and introduce you to the flavours that make Thailand a culinary marvel.
Issara Family
Decades ago, in the heart of Bangkok, James served as a royal page to the late King Rama IX. However, life had its twists and turns, and for two decades, James found himself seeking refuge far from his homeland. Canada became his new sanctuary, where he embarked on a fresh chapter of his life, determined to bring the traditions and authenticity of Thailand to a new audience.
This unwavering commitment to tradition led some to perceive him as grumpy, but to those who understood, James was a guardian of a rich heritage. Beyond the kitchen, James's vast knowledge of the Thai royal family, politics, and Thai history enriched the dining experience. Patrons were not only treated, sometime unwillingly, to exquisite dishes but also to a journey through the history and culture of Thailand.
James is married to Megan. They have a daughter, Abigail, whose laughter and curiosity brought a touch of joy to the kitchen. He is also an older brother of Yoh.
James
Meet Yoh, the quiet force behind Le Cafe Siam: Thai Cuisine, and James' younger brother. Yoh's life is a whirlwind of constant activity. By day, he serves as an insurance agent at Westmister Mutual in Belmont, using his compassion to help clients navigate the complex world of insurance. But as the sun sets, he doesn't slow down. Yoh is the unwavering engine that powers the restaurant through the night.
His days are long, and the hours are demanding, yet Yoh never seems to stop. When he's not at the insurance office, he's in the restaurant, where he tackles the labor-intensive tasks both in and out of the kitchen. From sourcing the freshest ingredients to managing inventory and ensuring everything runs smoothly, Yoh is the linchpin that keeps Le Cafe Siam running like clockwork.
Despite his demanding schedule, Yoh can be a little moody at times, a testament to the weight of his responsibilities. But beneath the occasional gruff exterior lies a heart of gold. He's the one who ensures that the traditions and authenticity James holds dear are upheld in the restaurant's daily operations. Yoh's relentless dedication to Le Cafe Siam is a testament to his love for both the business and his family.
Yoh
Megan, a remarkable woman whose life is a delicate balancing act, with compassion and hard work at its core. By day, she is a visiting nurse at Saint Elizabeth in the city of London. Her role is one of constant movement, driving from one place to another, bringing care and comfort to those in need. Megan's heartwarming presence provides solace to her patients and their families.
At the end of the day, Megan's day is far from over. She takes on a new role, stepping into the bustling restaurant Le Cafe Siam: Thai Cuisine, where she's an essential part of the team. What truly sets Megan apart is her ability to transition seamlessly from the world of healthcare to the realm of culinary service. Her nurturing nature and dedication shine through in both roles.
Her marriage to James, the grumpy and obsessive cook, is a testament to their enduring love and unwavering support for one another. Together, they find the delicate balance between their demanding careers and the joyful chaos of family life. Their union brought a beautiful daughter, Abigail.
Megan
Grace
Grace is the front line of the bustling world of Le Cafe Siam: Thai Cuisine, the youngest adults of the family. Her primary role may be at at the front of the house, where she gracefully orchestrates the dining experience for patrons, ensuring their every need is met. Grace's warm smile and attentive service make every visitor feel like a cherished guest in her own home.
Yet, her role extends far beyond the front of the house. Grace is often found in the kitchen, supporting her husband, Yoh, who is the heart and engine of the restaurant. She's a true multitasker, balancing the demands of both front-of-house and back-of-house operations with grace and ease.
She's affectionately known as "Tee," a shortened version of "Aunty" by Abigail, a title that embodies her nurturing nature and the role she plays in the life of her family.
In her own unique way, Grace is the a vital part of the family, doing whatever the time and energy permit. Her love and dedication create a warm and inviting atmosphere at Le Cafe Siam, making it not just a restaurant but a home away from home. Grace comprised the fourth pillar of support for the restaurant, while our customers discovered a genuine Canadian welcome with a Thai touch—the heart and spirit of Le Cafe Siam.
The adorable and spirited 2020 arrival who has brought a world of joy to her parents, James and Megan. Born in the midst of a pandemic, Abigail is affectionately known as a "Covid baby," a symbol of hope and resilience in challenging times.
In a family filled with culinary talents, Abigail possesses her own unique tastes. Despite having a Dada (James) and uncle Yoh who are exceptional cooks, her palate has distinct preferences. Her favorite meals are simple yet cherished – instant noodles, candy, and milk.
Patrons will often find Abigail adding her own unique charm to the restaurant. She can be seen perched at the pass, watching her family's culinary creations come to life (or watching TV). Her lively presence adds an extra touch of warmth to the dining experience, making diners feel like part of the family. Sometimes, her playful and carefree spirit shines through in her choice of attire, or lack thereof. Abigail might greet customers with bare feet and a smile, a testament to her endearing spontaneity.