Meet Pan Nis | Restaurant owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Pan Nis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I decided to start Civilize Thai in Beverly Hills, my thought process revolved around a few key ideas. First, I wanted to bring authentic Thai cuisine to a place known for its discerning tastes and love for high-quality dining experiences. I believed in the power of Thai flavors and traditions, and I saw an opportunity to create a unique space where people could enjoy the cultural depth of our food, but in an elegant, modern setting.

I also considered the importance of creating a memorable dining experience—not just in the taste of the food, but in the atmosphere, the service, and the presentation. I wanted to showcase Thai hospitality in a way that made every guest feel special, from the moment they walked through the door to the moment they left.

Finally, I was motivated by the idea of building something lasting, a place where community and culture could come together, and where people could escape the everyday and enjoy something extraordinary. Balancing tradition with a contemporary touch was a challenge I embraced, and it’s been rewarding to see how Civilize Thai has become a beloved part of the Beverly Hills dining scene.

What should our readers know about your business?
Civilize Thai was born from a passion for sharing the rich culinary heritage of Thailand with the world. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to authenticity paired with a desire to elevate the traditional dining experience. We’re not just serving Thai food; we’re offering a cultural journey, where every dish tells a story, blending time-honored recipes with fresh, contemporary touches.

One of the proudest moments on this journey has been watching our guests embrace not only the flavors but also the culture behind every meal. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear customers say that our food transports them to Thailand—that they can feel the love and dedication behind each dish. That kind of feedback fuels our excitement and drives us to constantly innovate while honoring our roots.

The path to success was far from easy. Navigating the competitive restaurant industry comes with its share of challenges, from managing logistics to maintaining quality amidst growth. But these challenges have taught me resilience and the importance of consistency. We’ve remained true to our vision, focusing on delivering high-quality dishes and an experience that keeps people coming back.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that authenticity is key. Trends will come and go, but staying authentic to who we are and what we offer has been our greatest strength. Our goal is to connect with people—not just through food but through an experience that feels personal and meaningful.

At Civilize Thai, we want the world to know that we’re not just another Thai restaurant. We are a place where tradition meets innovation, where every dish is a bridge between the past and the present, and where community is at the heart of everything we do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experience the perfect mix of food, culture, and nature that makes this city special.

Day 1: We’d kick off the trip by grabbing brunch at Civilize Thai, where the vibrant flavors of our authentic Thai cuisine will set the tone for the week ahead. Then, we’d head to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) to immerse ourselves in art and culture. For dinner, we’d hit up Republique, a beautiful spot known for its stunning architecture and inventive dishes.

Day 2: We’d spend a leisurely morning at Runyon Canyon, taking in panoramic views of the city, followed by lunch at Grand Central Market, where they can try diverse cuisines from local vendors. In the evening, a visit to the Griffith Observatory for a breathtaking sunset and a peek at the stars would be a must.

Day 3: Time to relax! We’d spend the day at Malibu Beach, soaking in the sun, followed by a casual seafood dinner at The Reel Inn. To top it off, we’d enjoy some live music at The Troubadour for an authentic L.A. experience.

Day 4: Shopping and exploring day! We’d visit The Grove for some retail therapy and then head to Little Tokyo for a fun food tour. Afterward, we’d grab drinks at Perch, a rooftop bar with incredible city views.

Day 5: We’d visit the Getty Center to explore the art, gardens, and architecture, followed by lunch at Joan’s on Third. In the evening, we’d enjoy a casual yet flavorful dinner at Night + Market, a trendy spot that offers bold Thai street food.

Day 6: We’d take a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at Santa Monica Pier for some nostalgic fun and ending the day with a sunset dinner at Nobu Malibu for a luxurious touch.

Day 7: On the final day, we’d go for a scenic hike in Topanga State Park, with its beautiful trails and nature views. For our last meal together, we’d dine at Bestia, known for its industrial vibe and amazing Italian food. To end the week, we’d enjoy dessert at Milk Bar, a sweet spot offering iconic treats like cereal milk ice cream.

The city offers so much diversity, from cultural spots to culinary experiences. It’s truly a place where every corner has something new to discover, and I’d make sure my friend experiences the very best of it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my deepest gratitude to my family, especially my mother and brother, who have been unwavering sources of love, support, and strength throughout my journey in building Civilize Thai. Their encouragement and belief in my vision have kept me going through every challenge and triumph.

I also want to give a special shoutout to my incredible team at Civilize Thai. Their passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence are the true driving forces behind the restaurant’s success. Each team member contributes their unique talent and energy, and I am truly fortunate to work alongside such a remarkable group. Without them, Civilize Thai wouldn’t be where it is today.

Website: https://WWW.CIVILIZETHAI.COM

Instagram: @civilizethaibeverlyhills

Linkedin: @civilizethaibeverlyhills

Facebook: @civilizethaibeverlyhills

Yelp: Civilize Thai Bistro

Youtube: Civilizethaibeverlyhills

Image Credits
Civilizethaibeverlyhills