Thai Chef Narong Lasuai Celebrates Life in Estonia

By Rene Satsi
March 26, 2025

Thai chef Narong Lasuai, who has embraced life in Estonia for the past eight years, has become known for his vibrant personality and dedication to sharing authentic Thai cuisine with the local community. Residing in Tallinn, Narong’s journey from the Isaan region of Thailand to becoming the head chef at the New Thai restaurant highlights his commitment to cultural exchange and his love for his adopted country.

Embracing the Estonian Lifestyle

Affectionately known as "New," Narong married an Estonian man and moved to Estonia to build a new life. His initial impressions of the country were shaped by the quiet nature of its people, which he humorously described during a recent conversation. “When I first came to Estonia, I was very surprised that people seemed distant, and I was a stranger to them,” he notes. This perception, however, changed over time as he began to understand the historical context behind the reserved demeanor of Estonians.

“I learned about your history and understood why. The reserved nature of people has undoubtedly been shaped by the past – when there was war and Estonia was an occupied country,” he explained. He has since found warmth in interactions with local residents, particularly during his visits to farmers’ markets, where he receives friendly greetings.

Cultural Reflections

Narong encourages visitors to Thailand to seek genuine cultural experiences beyond popular tourist destinations. “If they really want to experience authentic Thai culture, then for heaven’s sake, don’t go to touristy places,” he emphasizes, recommending his hometown of Udon Thani for its rich cultural heritage and welcoming people. Narong believes that many of Thailand’s tourist hotspots have lost their cultural essence due to commercialization.

Life in the Kitchen

In his role as head chef, Narong fosters an inclusive atmosphere in the kitchen. “The most important thing is mutual respect,” he states, emphasizing teamwork over hierarchy. He encourages his colleagues to support one another, thus creating a family dynamic among the staff. As for his workload, Narong advocates for a balanced approach, working diligently while ensuring that breaks are taken.

Narong’s respect for Estonia extends to his efforts in learning the Estonian language, which he began studying before moving. “I wanted to be able to say simple things, like tere (hello),” he shared. His motivation grew from his desire not only to integrate into society but also to work effectively within the culinary community.

Family Ties and Responsibilities

Despite the distance from his homeland, Narong remains deeply connected to his family. He sends financial support to his sister in Thailand, who serves as both a caretaker and a guiding figure in his life. Narong’s emotional connection is evident as he describes the importance of supporting his sister, particularly after the loss of several family members during his childhood.

His commitment to family also influences his views on social responsibility. He recognizes the challenges faced in Thailand, particularly in the absence of safety nets and pensions, and therefore feels a duty to contribute to his family’s well-being.

Integrating Culinary Cultures

Narong finds joy in the diversity of culinary experiences between Thailand and Estonia. He playfully admits, “I still don’t know exactly what Estonian food is,” while expressing a willingness to try new dishes. His open-mindedness extends to exploring local cuisine when traveling, as he hopes to bridge cultural gaps through food.

When asked about his future aspirations, Narong mused about starting a business that would facilitate travel from Estonia to Thailand, allowing people to explore the authentic beauty of his homeland.

A Unique Cultural Contribution

Narong’s vibrant personality and infectious smile contribute significantly to the Estonian culinary scene. He believes that his presence and willingness to share his culture enrich local life. “I show myself! That’s the most important thing,” he remarked, highlighting how he blends his Thai identity with his life in Estonia.

As Narong continues to thrive in his role as head chef and cultural ambassador, he remains dedicated to celebrating the beauty of both Thai and Estonian traditions. With a heart full of gratitude for his experiences, Narong Lasuai represents the harmonious blend of cultures and the hospitality that bridges worlds.

This article forms part of the “Estonia with Many Faces” media program, which aims to showcase the richness and diversity of Estonian culture, supported by the Estonian Ministry of Culture.