Fine Asian Cuisine Sushi Yama Siam
True sushi lovers will adore the sashimi combination at Sushi Yama Siam.
Set In Modern Décor At New
STORY BY LAUREN MIRÓ PHOTOS BY ABNER PEDRAZA
For a new take on fresh sushi and fine Asian cuisine, look to Sushi Yama Siam, the new Japanese and Thai restaurant that opened earlier this year in the Wellington Plaza at the corner of Wellington Trace and Forest Hill Blvd. Owners Oudom and Manisoune Khounthavong moved to the United States from Laos 10 years ago, first working at their family restaurant’s original Boca Raton branch. “I liked America,” Manisoune said. “My family lived here, so we decided to move.” Their culinary inspiration comes from cooking for family and friends in their home country, which shares many traditional dishes with Thailand. Oudom can be found behind the sushi bar, while Manisoune is whipping up delights in the kitchen. Wellington is the third location for the family restaurant, which opened a branch in Palm Beach Gardens last year. The couple worked for a decade in Boca, before expanding to Wellington in February. “When we decided to open a new restaurant, we wanted it to be in Wellington,” recalled family member Malaysak Siharath, a server at the restaurant. The restaurant features about seven to eight cooks and servers, all near or distant relatives to the Khounthavongs who have been working for the business since it opened. The restaurant is geared toward families, with a diverse menu featuring child-friendly options. But from the food to the décor, the entire dining experience at Sushi Yama Siam can be described as serene. Cream and chocolate-colored leather booths offset mossy green walls and rich, plum-colored wooden tables. Behind the sushi bar is a bright yellow splash wall, and pink streamers hang from the recent grand opening. The design is eclectic yet peaceful, and is reminiscent of contemporary Asia, with a splash of modern décor. Asian-inspired art hangs on the walls. Wooden lanterns create intimate lighting, and goldfish swim to and fro while ambient music plays in the background. WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE••APRIL APRIL2010 2010 WELLINGTON
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