How Vegas Became a Thai Food Hotspot

Las Vegas has some Thai food heavy hitters: Weera, Ocha, Archie’s, and of course, the James Beard Award-winning Lotus of Siam (which Saveur once called the “best Thai food in North America”). But how did we get here? Today, we’re bringing back a conversation that co-host Vogue Robinson had with UNLV professor Mark Padoongpatt. He’s the Director of Asian and Asian-American Studies at UNLV, and wrote a book about the history of Thai food in America called “Flavors of Empire.” Mark talks about how the Cold War helped Thai food make its way onto American plates, and how the rising fame of places like Lotus of Siam is changing the way that Americans value Thai food.

What’s your favorite Thai food in Vegas? Let us know by tagging us on social media — we’re @CityCastVegas on Twitter and Instagram. You can also call or text us at 702-514-0719.

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