Brentwood will soon get a taste of Laos.
Han Lao plans to open soon in the area at 1250 Strassner, in the former home of Camille's Sidewalk Cafe. The restaurant, described as a "Lao-Thai kitchen," comes from Thom Chantharasy, the owner of popular Maplewood ramen and sushi shop Robata. Han Lao will serve lunch and dinner, with the former being counter-service and the latter traditional table service.
Chantharasy says he's excited to bring Laos cuisine to the St. Louis area. "St. Louis is very diverse [in its food scene], but it's missing Laotian food," he says. Although it's similar to Thai food, as the countries are neighbors, Chantharasy adds there are subtle differences. "Ramen and pho have gotten so popular, I thought it was a good time to introduce a Laotian version of noodle soup."
Han Lao will offer a Laotian pork-based soup with vermicelli noodles, served with red curry and coconut milk, and garnished with fresh herbs. The restaurant will also serve sweet rice, commonly known as "sticky rice," a dish that's personal for Chantharasy.
"The funny thing is, a big reason I chose to open a Laotian restaurant is because my children always crave this sweet rice," he says with a laugh. "Sometimes I'm so busy, I can't make it for them. I thought, 'Why don't I open a restaurant close to where we live, and they can eat it whenever they'd like?'"
The rest of the menu is still being finalized, he says, but adds that online ordering will be an option. As for drinks, the restaurant plans to apply for a liquor license, and Chantharasy mentions possibly serving Laotian and Thai beer on tap, as well as sake.
Han Lao will be Chantharasy's second restaurant in St. Louis. He opened Robata in 2015, and its success is part of his decision to start a new venture.
"Robata has gotten to the point where it's running on its own," he says. "I trust my employees and that they can run it without me. You don’t want to stagnate. You want to keep growing, and this location popped up at the right time."
Chantharasy hopes to debut Han Lao in about three months.
