Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Liberda.
Hi Pam, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am Liberda, originally from Lampang in Northern Thailand. I pursued my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at Mahidol University before moving to the United States in 1998. She met Teddy Liberda, the proprietor of Thai Place Restaurants, and their union brought her into the heart of a burgeoning Thai restaurant dynasty. Pam played a crucial role in launching eight chain locations, pausing her career after that to focus on raising their two daughters. Her genuine enthusiasm for culinary arts and hospitality eventually led her to a position at Company Kitchen at the Cerner Innovation Campus, where she excelled as the International Station Chef. She catered to over 500 customers daily with her globally inspired dishes. Eager to delve deeper into her culinary journey, Pam inaugurated Waldo Thai, a venue that showcases her Northern Thai heritage through its culinary offerings. Waldo Thai is among the select establishments specializing in Northern Thai cuisine, a testament to Pam’s dedication to celebrating and preserving her roots. Her remarkable contributions to the culinary world earned her a nomination as a semifinalist for the Best Chef in the Midwest Category by the James Beard Foundation.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Pam Liberda’s journey to becoming the Executive Chef at Waldo Thai has been without challenges. As a woman, an immigrant, and a person of color, she has navigated numerous hurdles on her path to success. Within the service industry, where struggles for women are prevalent, Pam has encountered familiar obstacles, compounded by the barriers presented by linguistic differences and contrasting experiences. At Waldo Thai, she has also confronted challenges stemming from a mismatch between the local Kansas City populace’s expectations of Thai cuisine and the authentic dishes she crafts with care. Through unwavering hard work, commitment, and patience, Pam has forged a path of confidence, continuously working to educate others and advocate for preserving her culture. In doing so, she has made a significant name for herself and serves as a beacon of inspiration for her daughters, women, immigrants, and minority individuals throughout the region.
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Waldo Thai?
Waldo Thai is a beacon of Northern Thai cuisine in the heart of Waldo, Kansas City, MO. Under the guidance of Chef Pam, our restaurant is dedicated to bridging the gap between her Thai roots and the local community, offering an authentic dining experience that’s both genuine and heartfelt. Chef Pam’s commitment to authenticity shines through in every dish as we strive to use the best locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each meal is not just a feast for the senses but also a tribute to Thai culinary traditions.
What truly sets Waldo Thai apart is our unapologetic approach to food. We take immense pride in our offerings, a bold representation of Northern Thai culture and cuisine. Specializing in Lanna cuisine, Waldo Thai is among the few in the nation serving the traditional “Khantoke” dinner platter. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates the Northern Thai people’s heritage, values, and communal spirit, inviting our guests to partake in a cultural journey right at their tables. Our commitment to the community goes beyond just serving food. Waldo Thai is deeply integrated into the fabric of our neighborhood, always looking for ways to give back and express our gratitude for the unwavering support we’ve received. This symbiotic relationship with our community is a testament to our love for local engagement and reflects our brand’s ethos of gratitude and service. We are most proud of our ability to create a space where culinary tradition and community spirit intersect, offering our guests more than just a meal but an authentic Northern Thai experience. At Waldo Thai, we want our readers and patrons to know that they’re not just customers but valued members of a more prominent family. Here, every dish tells a story, every meal is a celebration, and everyone is welcome to join us in this continuous feast of culture, community, and exceptional Northern Thai cuisine.
Have you learned any exciting or essential lessons due to the COVID-19 crisis?
The Covid-19 crisis has been a period of profound learning and reflection for us. Among the most significant lessons we’ve absorbed is the importance of community support. We’ve witnessed firsthand how a community rallies behind businesses that show genuine care and support for their well-being. This interchange has been a beacon of hope and resilience during challenging times, reinforcing that businesses and communities thrive together, not apart. Another critical lesson has been the necessity of agility and responsiveness. The pandemic underscored the importance of staying abreast of trends and adapting swiftly to changes, whether they pertain to safety protocols, customer preferences, or operational strategies. We can pivot quickly and effectively to ensure that we can continue serving our community while keeping safety, relevance, and quality at the forefront of our operations. These insights have not only guided us through the crisis but have also shaped our approach moving forward. They remind us that our relationship with the community is a cornerstone of our success and that our ability to adapt and innovate is crucial in navigating any challenge that comes our way.
Contact Info:
- Website: waldothai.com
- Instagram: waldothai
- Facebook: waldothai
- Twitter: waldothai
Image Credits
Jenny Wheat
