We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Anna Thatsanaphonh. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Anna below.

Anna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

I’ve always had a deep passion for cooking, but health challenges have shaped my journey in ways I never expected. After being diagnosed with cancer, I found myself navigating through treatments while juggling regular jobs just to afford health insurance and pay for my medical care. During this time, I worked in several restaurants, always holding onto my love for cooking but unable to fully pursue it due to my health.

The biggest risk I ever took came after being laid off from my steady job and entering remission. With a mix of fear and excitement, I decided to take the leap and launch my private chef business through Instagram. It wasn’t easy, but I started building a loyal clientele, starting with door deliveries and trays of food for people. Over time, I expanded into pop-ups, private events, and fine dining experiences.

Today, I specialize in Lao cuisine, a true passion of mine. I love sharing my culture through food, especially by taking traditional recipes and presenting them in modern ways while still honoring the original methods. I also enjoy elevating old-school recipes with new-school flavors. It’s been a challenging journey, but cooking has allowed me to not only perfect my craft but also spread awareness of my heritage, one dish at a time.

Anna, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve always had a deep passion for feeding people, a love that began in my large immigrant family, where food was our primary love language. Growing up, I was surrounded by the warmth of my grandpa, aunts, and mom, watching them cook and learning from them at a young age. I helped in the kitchen, absorbing the traditions and flavors that would shape my culinary journey.

As I got older, I worked at my family’s restaurant, where I truly honed my skills and learned the ins and outs of running a kitchen. Eventually, I took the leap to launch my own private chef business, and from there, I became a partner in another family-owned restaurant in Orange County.

I specialize in Lao and Southeast Asian cuisine, and my mission is to elevate these dishes with a modern twist, offering a new-school kick while also creating gluten-free and vegan options for everyone to enjoy. Even though my brand is still small, I’m humbled and amazed at the opportunities that have come my way. I never imagined being hired by influencers, top media companies, and individuals, both friends and strangers, to provide my food for their special events.

As a child of Lao immigrants, I’m incredibly proud to showcase our food and culture with the world. Lao cuisine is often overshadowed by Thai food, hidden behind menus that fail to give it the recognition it truly deserves. I’m on a mission to change that—by sharing the authentic flavors and traditions of Lao food, I hope to give it the spotlight it’s always deserved.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

After being diagnosed with cancer, I had to put my culinary dreams on hold while I focused on my health. I worked regular jobs just to afford treatment, but my passion for cooking never faded. Once I entered remission and was laid off from my job, I took a huge leap and decided to launch my private chef business on Instagram. Despite the fear and uncertainty, I started small—doing deliveries and meal trays—but I pushed through the challenges and gradually built my clientele. Over time, I expanded into pop-ups and private events.

This journey wasn’t easy, but my resilience carried me through the toughest moments. I never let setbacks stop me from pursuing my passion, and today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I’ll never forget catering for a high-profile client who was incredibly rude to me and my staff. We worked hard to prepare an elaborate dinner, ensuring every detail was perfect. From the moment we arrived, the client was cold and condescending, criticizing our work over minor, unreasonable things. She treated us like we were invisible, barking orders and making snide comments.

It was a harsh reminder of how people in the service industry are often overlooked and disrespected. Despite the rude treatment, I realized that the key lesson for me was that perfection isn’t about pleasing others at any cost. It’s about staying true to my craft, respecting myself and my team, and not letting anyone else’s behavior diminish the quality of our work.

That night taught me to walk away with pride, knowing I gave my best, regardless of how I was treated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theepicureanbunny.com
• Instagram: theepicureanbunny