Looking for a taste of Thailand? Look no further than Thailicious, now open at 2404 East Hastings Street. Opened just last month, the new restaurant invites customers to experience the delicious flavors of “real” authentic Thai culture, right here at home. “I am proud to cook Thai food and showcase what Thai people eat,” says Khwan, owner of Thailicious. “I really enjoy when people say our food is “real” Thai food. We receive compliments that our food takes people back to Thailand. Working and eating here keeps me connected to Thailand, and its culture.” 
What began as a humble catering company housed out of a commissary kitchen has become a full-scale operation for Khwan, but she tells us she loves to keep busy. “I will often forward the business number to my cellphone, so I can still take catering orders at night.” She’s not kidding! “Sometimes people will phone at like 11:30 at night, and I still answer the call.” Most of Khwan’s existing business was already in East Vancouver, so it made perfect sense to open shop in the East Village area. “There is a lot of culture here, and everyone is appreciative of it,” she says. “Everyone knows everyone. I enjoy having the usual customers that I have learned to recognize. Many of the businesses also know each other, and are kind to one another.” If you’re a fan of Pad Thai, then you’ve got to try Chef Alec’s shrimp Pad Thai, the most popular dish to date. It’s such a hit with customers that they’ve begun jarring the sauce for sale, too. With plenty of vegan and gluten-free options of the menu here, it’s a great place for anyone. Thailicious also carry premium organic Doi Chang Coffee and freshly baked pastries, making it an ideal spot to check in for a morning bite. This summer Khwan plans to roll out cold beverages like Frappuccino’s and Iced Tea. Oh, did we mention their authentic Thai iced coffee? A must-try for any coffee connoisseur. Thailicious is open Monday through Friday from 8am-10pm; Weekends from 10:30am-10:00pm, with home delivery available. Check out their website for more information, and get social on their Facebook page.