No more sharing the spotlight. A new Berkeley restaurant puts the focus on Laotian food

Kanlaya Palivan opened Lao Garden in West Berkeley in January to celebrate Laotian cuisine, which she believes is often overshadowed by Thai food. The restaurant aims to educate the community about Laotian culture through its diverse menu, featuring traditional dishes like thum lao lao and saikoo. Growing up in Wichita, Kansas, Palivan experienced a blend of American fast food and her mother's authentic Laotian cooking. After a 30-year career in software sales, she embraced her passion for food and culture, hoping to honor her heritage. The restaurant's vibrant decor and inviting atmosphere enhance the dining experience.

Palivan emphasizes that the Lao community is present and worthy of recognition. She recalls the challenges her family faced in finding ingredients when they first emigrated from Laos. Lao Garden seeks to foster a greater appreciation for Laotian flavors in the Bay Area, a region already rich in diverse culinary offerings.