About Us
Bua is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Durham, a place that we have called home since moving to NC from Thailand over 25 years ago. We have always loved to host, cook and entertain, and from the start had the dream to own our very own restaurant so we may share our love of good food with our community.
"Bua" (BOO-AH) in Thai means lotus, a flower that has always held an important place in Thai culture because it is the traditional flower of Buddhism. We hope to share the richness and hospitality of our culture with everyone who walks through our doors so come visit Bua today and see why Thailand is called 'Land of Smiles'.
Our Team
Pat
Co-Owner, Pastry Chef
Growing up in Ubon, Thailand, food was always a big part of me and Nita's life. Although I love Thai food, French pastries and baked goods captured my heart! In 2009 I studied at the International Culinary Center in NYC where I immersed myself in perfecting pastries and cakes.
In 2014 I started selling my baked goods at the South Durham Farmer's Market. This was a great experience and the crowd was very supportive so after two years, I joined Bua so I could make my culinary creations for people to enjoy every day.
Taylor
Co-Owner, Head Chef
I was born in Chiang Rai, Thailand and came to live here in 1994. I've always been passionate about cooking and in the summer of 2015 I decided to make it my career so attended the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York to study and become a chef.
I've learned from many great chefs over the years including celebrity chef and author James Reeson. After finishing 2 years of school I wanted to get some real world restaurant experience in NYC so I completed a 2 month internship followed by 6 months of work under Top Chef Anit Lo.
Anita
Co-Owner, Manager
Over 25 years ago my sister, Pat, and I came to Durham to live with our aunt to get our slice of the American Dream. We worked in manufacturing for many years but were always passionate about food and cooking as it is a big part of Thai culture.
I would regularly host dinners and events at my house throughout the years and always enjoyed bringing together good company and great food. It has always been a dream of mine to start our very own restaurant and we're grateful that we've been able to make it a reality.
