With Lek having worked in the restaurant business for more than 15 years, the couple said they had been looking for an opportunity to open a restaurant of their own but had yet to find the right time. The couple said the right time ended up finding them, and they could not turn down the opportunity.
“We were waiting for the right opportunity, and it came,” Aaron said.
Lek said she was friends with the wife of the landlord of the property on which Magnolia Thai now operates. After the previous restaurant was no longer operating there, the couple said the landlord approached the Kinlers about taking over the building and starting a restaurant. The couple said after five years of hoping and waiting, it was finally time to open the restaurant.
Magnolia Thai Restaurant features a variety of Asian-centered dishes, such as orange chicken, curry and pad thai. The restaurant also offers spring rolls, tom yum soup, salads and traditional Thai teas.
According to Lek, the business has been blessed with nice customers and regular business. The couple said since opening in early 2022, their customers have turned into regulars quickly.
Aaron said he believes Magnolia Thai sustains similar struggles as other locally owned restaurants, such as working every day and long hours. For example, Aaron said during the first few months the restaurant was open, he ran the front of the restaurant as well as managing the kitchen in the back. Now, Magnolia Thai employs a cashier as well as two cooks.
Since opening, Aaron said the eatery has received high praise for its food. Lek said she loves meeting customers and finds joy when they are happy with their meal.
“I love to cook, I love food, and I love to work,” Lek said.
Magnolia Thai Restaurant
37125 FM 1774, Ste. 103, Magnolia
281-789-7425
www.magnoliathai.com
Hours: Sun., Tue.-Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; closed Mon.
