Known for his inventive twists on Thai cuisine, Chef Angus An (Maenam, Fat Mao, Sen Pad Thai, and Longtail Kitchen) is now ready to introduce Sainam, located at 1235 Davie Street in the spot formerly home to Davie Dosa Company.

The latest of An’s projects will take cues from one of Thailand’s lesser-explored culinary corners, the Isaan region. From a recently released statement, he shares: “I’ve always been a huge fan of the food from the Isaan region – it’s so distinct from other parts of Thailand, with its robust flavours and rustic-styles. I was inspired to bring some of my favourite Isaan dishes to Vancouver, including a variety of som tum dishes and Wechanburi-style gai yang that truly showcase the heart and soul of this unique area.”

To bring these bold flavours to life, An has teamed up with Chef Poom Sikarin Sirisupanon – currently sous chef at Maenam and a proud Khon Kaen native — who’s eager to highlight the classic heat and tangy freshness that define Isaan cooking. An and Poom Sikarin Sirisupanon are developing a menu focused on rustic specialties like som tum (papaya salad) served in multiple variations, plus Wechanburi-style grilled chicken that balances savoury notes with just a touch of sweetness.

The 40-seat dining room will be designed  by architect/designer Scott Cohen (if you are a long-time Vancouver diner / Scout reader, you might recall that Cohen worked with An on his first, undeniably beautiful but ahead of its time restaurant, Gastropod, and then later transformed the space into what we know today as Maenam). The plan for Sainam is to preserve the original charm of the existing building (left) while weaving in bright, playful accents that mirror Isaan’s lively spirit.

Given Chef An’s track record, Sainam we’re expecting another laid-back and tasty hit. The team is currently aiming for a Spring 2025 opening. Stay tuned here, and follow @sainamrestaurant for developments on this project as the TBA opening date approaches.

Sainam

Neighbourhood: West End

1235 Davie Street

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