Secret Thai Garden restaurant began to evolve in 2001, as a family owned and operated business.
Aranya better known as ‘Tommy’ who is a trained chef and was born and raised in Surat Thani, Thailand, met Kiwi born Nobby, and together they wanted to bring an authentic Thai dining experience from Thailand home to Otahuhu.
All of the outdoor teak furniture was selected from Changmai in Northern Thailand, with each piece being hand crafted and having its own unique history. The container of treasures arrived in August of 2003 and the following two years were spent planting, landscaping with the skills of friend Christopher and creating their dream Secret Thai Garden.
Tommy created an extensive vegetable garden so that the restaurant could be supplied with fresh home grown produce. This practise is still carried on today where the Chefs source and select the freshest of produce for the dishes.
In the early years, Tommy spent most of her time working hard in the kitchen, while also raising her two sons, until the time came when she could employ two authentic Thai chefs, from different regions in Thailand. Tommy could then spend more time out in the restaurant, where she enjoys meeting and greeting customers and ensuring they have the best dining experience.
Many of the loyal and dedicated staff have been part of the team for several years, as they too enjoy the vibe in the garden of their work place.
The Team at Secret Thai Garden hope you will absorb the atmosphere in our Secret Thai Garden in the heart of Otahuhu, which is a perfect venue for casual dining, special events and private functions.