A brand new Oklahoma City restaurant is already making headlines after getting the attention of Bon Appetit Magazine. The publication sent staff out to find the 50 best new restaurants in 2022. Ma Der Lao Kitchen in OKC not only made the list but it's the only one from Oklahoma to do so.
“Be sure to order plenty of sticky rice and jaew, and take the menu’s advice to eat with your hands. Dipping and scooping your way across a table covered with saucy plates is by far the best way to experience the gutsiness and delicacy of Chanchaleune’s vision,” the site states.
The restaurant posted the following message on their Facebook page after being recognized by the magzine:
“We made Bon Appetit’s list of 50 Best New Restaurants in America! Our team’s hard work is paying off! So honored and stoked to be listed with all these great chefs and restaurants. Thanks for including us @bonappetitmag! This is surreal. It was an incredible birthday surprise that literally brought tears to my eyes. I was stunned to hear the news but also relieved to know that what we’re doing at Ma Der is making an impact on people and bringing a little light to Lao food.
We set out to honor our roots by sharing Lao culture and history through food. The majority of my career I didn’t really cook Lao food, but I was always inspired by its flavors. Lao food has been the sleeper Asian cuisine and earning this recognition validates its place among the conventional cuisines. I’m proud to have taken the leap with Ma Der and to be doing my part in moving Lao food forward. We couldn’t have achieved this without our passionate team that show up and work hard every single day. Many thanks to you all and to our fans! This is for you, OKC. Much love!”
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