By Story Console
Inspired by family recipes, culinary traditions, and elevated flavors, Houston’s newest Thai restaurant is led by executive chefs Jett and Jira Hurapan, and it’s already become one of the city’s top upscale dining destinations.
For anyone that’s ever searched for critically-acclaimed Thai restaurants in Houston, options haven’t exactly been plentiful – that is, until now. Much to the delight of Houston-area foodies, Yi Peng Thai Dining recently made its highly-anticipated debut at CityCentre and is now welcoming guests to enjoy the very best in traditional Northern Thai flavors.
As the first Thai restaurant in Houston to offer a true Chef’s Table experience, Yi Peng Thai Dining quickly emerged as one of the top trending restaurants in the area. Its elegant interior and welcoming ambiance are the perfect complements to an authentic selection of Thai dishes crafted by a dynamic duo of executive chefs. Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan and his wife, Chef Jira Hurapan, bring decades of combined experience, family history, and culinary expertise to the Yi Peng kitchen. From Chef Jett’s extensive career in the restaurant business to the traditional training Chef Jira has undertaken, they each contribute a tremendous amount of knowledge and passion to their newest project.
The restaurant is named after a famous full moon lantern festival that takes place in the Thai city of Chiang Mai every year, and there’s no doubt that Yi Peng Thai Dining is illuminating the Houston dining scene. Every dish on the menu embodies true Thai flavors, which are only enhanced by the impeccable preparation and fresh ingredients. Guests can explore the expansive menu and easily find an array of appealing options, including craft cocktails, appetizers, salads, main dishes, sides, and desserts, featuring classic favorites such as curry, rice, and noodle dishes.
The Khao Soi is one of the signature meals of Northern Thai capital Chiang Mai, often difficult to find in the U.S., and a dish you won’t want to miss at Yi Peng. Order the Pla Sam Ros for a dish that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious, comprised of a perfectly crispy whole red snapper fillet served with a richly flavorful sauce. Other favorites include the Pu Krob (a crispy soft shell crab seasoned with Thai herbs and topped in a spicy chili glaze), the lobster Pad Thai, and the deceivingly simple but incredibly delightful roti flatbread. For a sweet finish to your meal, you can choose from a variety of traditional Thai desserts unlike any you’ve had before.
But it’s not just the fabulous menu that sets Yi Peng Thai Dining apart; the restaurant is also the first of its kind to serve up a Chef’s Table dining experience in Houston. Guests can luxuriate in a nine-course chef’s tasting menu that includes selections made by Chef Jett and Chef Jira themselves. It’s the ultimate in five-star dining, ideal for a special occasion.
Yi Peng Thai Dining offers full-service dining, as well as online ordering, private events, catering, and takeout. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations can also be made online or by contacting the restaurant today.