Last summer I was to report on Thai Time, a new restaurant scheduled to launch in the space vacated by Bang Bang on NE Fremont. I waited in limbo, however, as it failed to open. Then voilà — in November last year, Proud Thai and Asian Fusion popped up in that space. So, I was able to finish my newsletter story, but about a different Thai restaurant.
Owners Ketnipa (Kate) Jirareungpanya and Sudarat (Kiki) Sukkho grew up in Thailand, becoming friends when they attended the same university in Bangkok. At the time, neither was focused on the food industry — Kate’s interests were in information technology and Kiki’s in business — but both their families had been involved with food-related businesses when they were growing up.
The two pursued separate paths after college, but they later reconnected in San Francisco. Their families’ roots in Thai food brought them together on a couple of opportunities, where Kate focused on the “front” of the restaurant (working with staff and customers) and Kiki focused on the kitchen.
In 2025, the two women made the entrepreneurial leap of faith, looking for opportunities in Oregon and Boise, Idaho. They visited the site on Fremont and were so impressed by the neighborhood vibe (they both now reside in NE Portland) they made the decision to move their team to Portland.
The duo emphasized their concept of “friends’ sphere” — all are family both at work and in life. Hence the team consists of Kate, Kiki, their partners, and a few others they had worked closely with in California, all contributing to the businesses’ success wherever needed. The Proud name reflects their feeling about their family roots and food flavors.
Kate and Kiki wouldn’t let me leave without a sample of their pad see ew and pork belly bao buns; needless to say, I will be back for more.
Find Proud Thai at 4727 NE Fremont St. Hours of operation are every day from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can view their creative menu and order for pickup or delivery at proudeatery.com.
John Sandie relocated from the Midwest with his wife Kathy to be closer to children and grandchildren in the area, landing on Fremont Street in B-W in early 2011. In retirement they pursue their desires to make a difference locally, John by volunteering with the neighborhood association, Kathy with Alameda School. The duo is contentedly busy volunteering and keeping up with grandchildren.
