Thai Orchid expansion blossoms; new restaurant coming to emerging foodie destination 

It’s time to bring Thai Orchid’s homecooking, well … home, said second-generation owner Jonathan Rojjanasrirat, teasing the October opening of a new Shawnee location for his family-owned, street food-inspired restaurant in a thriving entertainment district.

Khao Soi from Thai Orchid; photo by Parker Anderson

“We live in Shawnee. We’ve always loved the energy in the downtown area. With so many great spots, it’s become such a fun place to spend time,” said Rojjanasrirat, noting neighboring businesses like McLain’s, Drastic Measures, Wild Child, Transport Brewery, District Pourhouse, Gilda’s, and Hank’s Garage and Grill.

Located at 5907 Nieman Road, near the corner of Nieman and Johnson Drive, the new Thai Orchid space marks the start of a next chapter for the brand. The team is transitioning from its longtime Mission restaurant — set to close this fall — into an expanded, reimagined space. (A Northland location that launched in 2025 is expected to remain open.)

“We’ve been hoping to find the right opportunity here for the past few years,” Rojjanasrirat said of the move to Shawnee. “And when the chance came up to be part of the newly remodeled Marigold building, it just felt like the perfect fit.”

The space offers a blank canvas, he said, allowing the team to bring a thoughtful, design-forward vision to life under Nuttaphat “Aom” Stonnisgul’s creative direction, he said, noting their goal is to create a warm, inviting environment that feels like a friend’s house.

Every detail is being considered to deliver a space that feels lived-in and an atmosphere guests will want to return to again and again, said Rojjanasrirat.

Tiger Cry from Thai Orchid; photo by Parker Anderson

Raised in Bangkok and later studying in Shanghai, Stonnisgul brings a deep understanding of regional flavors and an intuitive sense for what makes a dish truly memorable. The new location is expected to build on Thai Orchid’s popular menu, featuring favorites like the popular Crying Tiger Fried Rice, alongside new additions such as Crispy Pork Belly (Moo Krob).

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A rendering of the new Thai Orchid space in Shawnee; courtesy image

“Aom has a clear vision for this space, and it’s been exciting to watch it come to life,” he continued. “We’re pulling in furniture and artwork directly from Thailand to give it real character, and the patio will be a big part of the experience. We want it to feel authentic and comfortable.” 

The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Kunti Pramoolsinsup serves as Kitchen Manager and brings five years of experience from the original Mission location. A cousin of Jonathan Rojjanasrirat, he plays a key role in maintaining consistency and quality across the kitchen while helping carry forward the family’s culinary traditions. 

Kroekkrit Anuson “Chef T” serves as executive chef, leading kitchen setup, staff training, and new recipe development. He is expected to ensure the Shawnee location opens with the same consistency and quality the brand is known for, Rojjanasrirat said.