Chef May is the leader of our pack! She is the Owner/Head Chef. Born and raised in Isan (Northeast Thailand), she trained at the Royal Palace Academy and cooked for the 👑 Royal family of Thailand in Bangkok. She then moved to Australia to work along side a Michelin Star Chef prior to opening Thai Pearl in Asheville, NC last year. 👏👏👏

Thai Pearl offers authentic Thai cuisine in the heart of historic West Asheville, led by Owner and Executive Chef May who trained at the Royal Palace Academy in Bangkok and worked alongside a Michelin Star chef in Australia. 

The menu features vibrant curries, fresh seafood including oysters, and classic dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup, with generous portions and options for vegetarian and vegan diets. The cozy, stylish interior combines a welcoming neighborhood vibe with attentive service, making it a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, or special occasions.

Locals dig Thai Pearl for its rich, complex flavors that stay true to traditional Thai cooking. The friendly staff and family-owned feel create a comfortable dining atmosphere. Favorites include the green papaya salad, massaman curry, and Thai-style fries. Thai Pearl strikes a nice balance between authentic taste and accommodating local palates, with spice levels adjusted on request.

Thai Pearl - West Asheville

Savor Asheville, NC’s diverse and flavorful food and drink scene, packed with acclaimed restaurants, lively bars, cozy coffee shops, and innovative breweries. Whether you’re craving local farm-to-table cuisine, signature cocktails, craft beer, or fresh roasted coffee, Asheville delivers a culinary adventure at every turn. Sample creative menus from downtown gems to hidden neighborhood favorites, and discover community-driven farmers markets, vibrant food trucks, and everything in between. Find the best places to eat, drink, and experience Asheville’s thriving culture of taste—your ultimate guide to unforgettable meals, handcrafted drinks, and local eats in every corner of the city.

Meet Chef May!

The Scoop