An Airstream trailer parked outside Horrocks Farm Market in Lansing has become a beloved fixture in the community. Suree "Mai" Richardson, the owner, has served countless customers, often drawing long lines that stretch down the street.
Mai came to the U.S. from Thailand in 2015, carrying dreams of a better life. "The American dream is real," she says. "You just have to work hard." Her humble beginnings in Chiang Rai were starkly different; her family often shared one pair of flip-flops. Growing up, Mai helped care for her siblings while her parents worked as farmers. "Everybody around you has a hard life too, so you don’t know what you’re missing," she reflects.
When she arrived in America, Mai took various jobs, including as a nanny, while navigating the bustling New York City subway. A pivotal moment happened when she realized she was on her own, chasing her dreams without anyone to lean on. Eventually, she met her husband Mark online. He shared her passion for food, specifically the dream of running a food truck.
Together, they turned an old Airstream into a four-wok kitchen, learning everything from YouTube and hands-on experiences. It was tough work, filled with late nights of hard labor. Their truck debuted in Jackson, Michigan, in July 2020, and shortly after, they moved to Lansing. Initially, they only operated on Mondays—the least popular day—until they quickly gained a loyal following. Customers began lining up before they even opened.
Eato Chef quickly became a hit in Horrocks’ beer garden, where Mai aimed to create a fine dining experience out of a food truck. "Treating customers well is essential," she believes. She even decided to forgo the planned Thai soup truck, opting instead for her incredibly popular pad thai. "We cook fresh for everyone when they order," Mai says, ensuring every dish is made with thought and care.
Mai’s attention to detail is evident in how she prepares her dishes. For example, she places lime, chives, and peanuts with precision to avoid making the noodles greasy. Eato Chef also offers varying spice levels for customers to tailor their meals to their liking.
Despite not advertising, Mai has built a loyal customer base. Many regulars have visited her since her opening, some traveling from as far as Detroit just for her pad thai. "Every year, people bring me gifts, and I keep a book for out-of-state customers to sign," she shares.
However, Mai’s time in Michigan is ending as she moves to Florida, seeking to escape the harsh winters that made operations challenging. The insulation and heaters in the trailer couldn’t combat the cold effectively, and every year brought new fixes.
On her final day in Lansing, crowds flocked to her truck, reflecting the strong community bonds she built. "This is our third time here since we heard they were closing," says one loyal customer. Some even expressed hopes of visiting her in Florida.
Looking ahead, Mai dreams of launching a nationwide chain featuring a drive-thru pad thai concept, which would be different from the traditional restaurant experience. She has even sketched plans for a large 24-wok kitchen while maintaining her Airstream roots.
Mai reflects on her journey with gratitude. "I never liked cooking pad thai in the beginning," she confesses. "But now, I can’t be thankful enough for it." Her experience embodies the labor of love and determination, showing that chasing your dreams can result in delicious rewards.
For more on Mai’s story and insights into immigrant entrepreneurs, visit The State News for extended coverage and updates.
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