Episode 103: Justin Pichetrungsi of Anajak Thai in LA

What would you say if I told you that a Disney artist, who helped bring animated films to life as well as designed video games and Disney theme park attractions, won a James Beard award this year for Best Chef California? Well, in today's podcast, we welcome Justin in to talk about his highly improbable journey from a first-generation Thai kid who grew up in his parents restaurant to one day leaving his artistic profession to come back to take over after his father had a debilitating stroke. This podcast has all the elements of a heart wrenching and uplifting Disney film, and we can't wait for you to listen!

Here’s what else was talked about:

• Justin doing the inaugural Voi•ãge dinner at Kalaya with Chef Nok
• Starting out as an artist at Disney
• How certain aspects of his time at Disney still play into his decisions at Anajak Thai
• Justin’s and Eli’s shared love for drawing out dishes before they begin to develop them in real life
• Literally growing up in his mom and dad’s restaurant
• His mother would give him ”showers” in the bathroom at the restaurant!
• How beat up the physical space of Anajak is after 40+ years in business
• When he had to take over the restaurant for his ailing father and the difficulties of filling his shoes...literally
• Learning from other chefs and friends in the business
• Are drop lines for servers necessary, or should guests be left to figure out the dish?
• What kind of chef do you want to be?
• The importance of hiring people who compliment you and fill the void in your knowledge
• Justin’s early memory of trips to Thailand to visit family
• How his father, after his stroke, still came into the restaurant using a wheelchair to help direct and train Justin
• Justin’s incredible James Beard speech

Supporters of the show:

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This holiday season make sure you reach for the true and authentic Parmigiano Reggiano to wow your guests with incredible flavors and textures. Click on the link to find out some fun and creative ways to use the one and only King of Cheese this holiday season!🎁🧀