Malisa Monyakula wants to welcome you home for the holidays; she already has an igloo waiting
December 19, 2024 | Taylor Wilmore
Adding pop-up holiday experiences at her popular Kansas City businesses is a way for Malisa Monyakula to bring back nostalgic memories of her childhood in Thailand, the restaurateur behind Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop said.
Holiday igloos outside Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop in Overland Park; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News
“Christmas is everywhere in Thailand,” she said, noting the classic American holiday celebrations are vibrant despite the country’s predominantly Buddhist population. “The rainy season ends in October, and from November to March, it’s peak tourist season. Every store and mall plays Christmas music and puts up decorations. You’d think you were in the U.S.”
Monyakula brings that festive vibe back at Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop’s Overland Park location — with its cozy winter igloos — as well as at its homey sister business, The House, in Westwood — where holiday revelers can find a welcoming pop-up bar.
“People love them. Everybody just has a fantastic time,” Monyakula said of the seasonal features. “When they leave, they’re just delightful. It’s fun to see.”
A Grinchy look at one of the holiday igloos outside Lulu’s Thai Noodle Shop in Overland Park; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News
The eye-catching igloos provide a whimsical dining experience with each space decked out with holiday decorations, creating a magical winter escape.
Reservations are required for the igloos, and guests can choose a pre-fixe menu with holiday-themed cocktails or order from Lulu’s regular menu. The experience combines festive flair with Lulu’s signature Thai flavors.
ICYMI: Naughty or nice night for a drink: Your guide to Kansas City holiday bar getaways
Ho Ho Ho at The House, 2707 W. 47th St., Westwood; courtesy photo
House party holiday pop-up
The House, located in Westwood, transforms into “Ho-Ho-Ho at The House” during the holiday season. Unlike many pop-ups that require reservations or fees, The House operates on a walk-in basis, a feature that visitors appreciate.
Ho Ho Ho at The House, 2707 W. 47th St., Westwood; courtesy photo
“It’s our second year doing this,” Monyakula said. “A lot of holiday pop-ups require bookings and charge reservation fees, but The House doesn’t. That’s important to me — to make it inclusive.”
The retro-inspired bar is adorned with holiday décor, featuring a turntable and record collection for nostalgic vibes. Inside seating is cozy, accommodating about 20 guests, while outdoor seating includes heaters and a fire pit for fresh-air enthusiasts.
“When the weather’s in the 50s, we have heaters and a fire pit outside,” Monyakula said, noting families can gather for s’mores, play cornhole, and enjoy other kid-friendly activities, making The House a welcoming spot for all ages.
Monyakula plans to continue these holiday traditions.
“Every year, we’ll keep doing this,” she said.
The House aims to be a year-round neighborhood gathering place where locals can relax, enjoy a cocktail, and feel at home.
“I wanted it to be a place where you can have some cocktails, walk home, and be safe,” Monyakula said. “A neighborhood bar go-to.”
Featured Business
Taylor Wilmore
Taylor Wilmore, hailing from Lee’s Summit, is a dedicated reporter and a recent graduate of the University of Missouri, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Taylor channels her deep-seated passion for writing and storytelling to create compelling narratives that shed light on the diverse residents of Kansas City.
Prior to her role at Startland News, Taylor made valuable contributions as a reporter for the Columbia Missourian newspaper, where she covered a wide range of community news and higher education stories.
2024 Startups to Watch
stats here
Related Posts on Startland News
Why a City Market favorite is jumping the state line — to the food court at Oak Park Mall
Its Brazilian dishes — using recipes the owners grew up eating in São Paulo — have been a City Market draw for more than a decade. Now Taste of Brazil restaurant is expanding to Johnson County, but as a quick-serve kiosk with a limited menu. Taste of Brazil Express plans a late September opening in…
Spiced side hustle gives this Kansas culinary teacher a kick (and a growing market)
Richard Wilks is bringing heat to Kansas’ food scene. A chef and community-builder at heart, Wilks created Burro, a line of chili and garlic crunch oils, sauces, and seasonings designed to fuel real connection around the table. His growing lineup can be spotted at the Overland Park Farmers Market, where loyal customers keep coming back…
Animal health innovators: Building on a new frontier means do-overs, even when you got it right first
Kansas City-based ELIAS Animal Health earned full USDA approval for its bone cancer therapy for dogs earlier this year, but the road to commercialization has been long and anything but straight, Tammie Wahaus shared. The veteran CEO shared her story of pivots — including switching from human health to animal health and adapting to ever-changing…
Development leaders laud HQ expansion for organization that opens workforce to Kansas Citians with autism
A new multimillion-dollar, 80,000-square-foot headquarters along Kansas City’s Brush Creek marks a major milestone for Behavioral Health Allies, strengthening the organization’s workforce training efforts and its belief in the potential for individuals with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders, officials said Wednesday. “This expansion is exactly the kind of investment Kansas City needs,” said Tracey…