Arun’s Thai Restaurant Closing Sunday in Albany Park After 39 Years
A Legendary Restaurant Comes to a Close
Arun’s Thai Restaurant in Albany Park will close its doors for good on Sunday, giving fans of the fine-dining spot one last chance to savor its menu before its award-winning chef and owner retires.
A Legacy of Excellence
Arun Sampanthavivat was born and raised in Thailand and opened his eponymous restaurant in 1985, offering an upscale, elaborate take on his native cuisine and collecting accolades along the way. The restaurant at 4156 N. Kedzie Ave. currently offers a nine-course tasting menu for $120, as well as an à la carte menu.
Awards and Accolades
Arun’s was hailed in 1996 by Chicago Tribune dining critic Phil Vettel as “a civic treasure, one of the restaurants that defines Chicago as a world-class restaurant town.” In 2000, Sampanthavivat won a James Beard Award for Best Chef, Midwest.
A Final Farewell
Sampanthavivat had planned to close the restaurant quietly without much fanfare, but after hearing from longtime customers curious about his retirement and the restaurant’s future, he decided to say farewell to them.
“I owe it to them too. I don’t want to keep them in the dark. A lot of them have been coming here for generations. I have many emotions about this closure and a lot of customers also feel that way, too,” he said.
A Future of Writing
As for what the future now holds, outside of selling the property, Sampanthavivat said he mainly wants to spend his time writing.
“I want to sit down and write a lot of things. That’s what I do best, what I love best,” Sampanthavivat said.
Last Chance to Visit
Arun’s is open from 5-9 p.m. through Sunday. Reservations can be made on the restaurant’s website.
Conclusion
Arun’s Thai Restaurant has been a staple of Albany Park for 39 years, and its closure marks the end of an era. The restaurant’s award-winning chef and owner, Arun Sampanthavivat, has announced his retirement and the restaurant will close its doors for good on Sunday.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason for the restaurant’s closure?
A: The restaurant’s owner and chef, Arun Sampanthavivat, is retiring and wants to spend his time writing.
Q: Is the restaurant open for one last visit?
A: Yes, Arun’s is open from 5-9 p.m. through Sunday. Reservations can be made on the restaurant’s website.
Q: What is next for Arun Sampanthavivat?
A: Sampanthavivat plans to spend his time writing and will not be involved in the restaurant business in the future.
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