Esan Thai was established in downtown Portland in 1999 by owner, Mao, who came from a small village in Vientiane, Laos. What began as a dream to share the flavors of home soon became a beloved local institution. Our unforgettable historic space in downtown Portland was a staple for countless Portlanders over the years, before Mao stepped into the thriving food cart scene.

Since then, Esan Thai has continued to serve authentic Thai dishes at various food cart pods throughout Oregon. Though our original flagship location closed during the pandemic, Mao’s daughters stepped in to carry on the legacy, helping their family relocate to Portland’s east side on 30th and Division.

Today, the family has settled in Hillsboro, Oregon and Esan Thai continues to grow. You’ll have to visit our family restaurant in Hillsboro to taste the decades-old recipes that have been lovingly crafted since 1999.