Founder of U-District's beloved Thai Tom dies unexpectedly

Friends and family are mourning the sudden death of Tom Suanpirintra. He was founder and chef of Thai Tom, a beloved Thai restaurant that’s been a mainstay in Seattle’s University District for nearly 27 years.

Tom Suanpirintra opened Thai Tom in 1994, before Thai food was ubiquitous. It was also one of the few places with an open kitchen. Diners crammed into the tiny space while they watched Suanpirintra cook their food over a big flame.

“We made up something very special together,” said restaurant manager Jackrisk “George” Kitsonthi.

Kitsonthi has been with Thai Tom since it opened and considers Suanpirintra a brother.

“We created our own recipe,” Kitsonthi recalled. “Me and Tom, try to create something very unique and what you find in Bangkok street food.”

Suanprinitra died May 11, one day before his 55th birthday. Kitsonthi says the cause of death was brain aneurysm, noting he had complained of a headache before heading home to get some rest.

Kitsonthi says it’s not going to be the same without Suanpirintra, but he feels his presence every day.