Wor has spent many years fanning the flame of Portland’s passion for Thai cuisine. We’re delighted that she leverages her enthusiasm and expertise as the Manager of our NW Portland restaurant.
Chantra “Wor” Somanand was born and raised in Bangkok, so she is no stronger to Thai food! Her mother gave her the nickname “Wor” (a letter in the Thai alphabet), and it has stayed with her on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. While in Thailand, she worked in member services at a golf club as well as a real estate broker. When neither position proved especially rewarding, she decided to move to America and see what that adventure might bring.
Wor began studying English as a Second Language (ESL) at the University of Portland in 1991 while working as a Server at a local Thai restaurant. She also took coursework in computer systems at Portland Community College. When a good friend made an introduction to the prospective owners of a new Thai restaurant, Wor decided to get in on the ground floor of their business. She became the first employee at Typhoon’s NW 23rd Avenue restaurant.
In addition to a career move, coming to America brought other changes to Wor’s life. She met and married her wonderful husband, and then gave birth to her son. She continued to work at Typhoon and shared child care responsibilities with her husband until their son turned 3 years old. With a superb babysitter on hand, both could work full time and then enjoy their off hours together as a family.
While working at Typhoon, Wor developed strong personal and professional relationships with many of the colleagues with whom she works at Thai Bloom. In fact, she thinks of all of them as her American family. This sense of connection doesn’t just exist among those who’ve worked together for many years. As she says: “When you work here, you aren’t just an employee. You become part of us. You’re our family.”
When asked how she feels Thai Bloom compares with other restaurants in the area, Wor’s comments all center on QUALITY. Every dish that the chefs prepare takes advantage of the best ingredients available. The food tastes amazing, and it’s really good for you. This commitment to quality makes Wor proud to represent the kitchen as a Server or a Manager. In like manner, the Front of the House does everything possible to offer the best service. The staff wants every guest to have a truly memorable dining experience.
As a connoisseur of Thai food, this story would not be complete without finding out which dishes Wor likes the best. Her favorites? Crying Tiger appetizer, Pumpkin Curry (a Fall-Winter special), Spicy Chicken with Basil, and Thai Yen Ta Fo.
Visit our NW Portland and get to know Wor in person!
