Thaï Express

With a mission to make authentic Thai cuisine accessible across the country, Thaï Express revolutionized the Canadian market by launching the first Thai fast-casual dining concept. From its first restaurant in downtown Montréal, the brand grew into a Canadian success story, with more than 300 locations around the world.

They say it takes a village—and the Thaï Express “village” began with the Thongvan sisters, who turned a passion project into a thriving brand. After immigrating from Southeast Asia, Loune Thongvan, Line Thongvan, Khay Thongvan, and Loy Thongvan brought their culinary knowledge and love for their home country’s cuisine to Thaï Express. While preparing to open her own location, Loune worked in operations, adapted family recipes for the North American market, and helped shape the brand’s identity. In 1999, she opened the first Thaï Express in downtown Montréal, using years of experience to create an innovative and successful concept. Behind her, her sisters ensured everything ran smoothly—with efficiency, consistency, and a shared passion for the craft.

When Loune met Dennis Tchao, the Thaï Express story entered a new chapter. Dennis took on the role of Head of Business Development, and the two married in 2003, strengthening their professional partnership. Together, they continued working with the entire Thaï Express team, guiding the brand from concept to execution and helping it grow even further.