#MyStory
Window to the Soul
by Michael Mandolfo
Food and religion are two important cultural elements that refugee and immigrant communities strive to practice and pass on to their children. In doing so, local neighborhoods are enriched with these diverse cultural elements. At times retaining culture can be difficult as families struggle to adapt and adjust to life in America.
Mimi and Bobby Sysomboune are refugee siblings living in Buffalo, N.Y. and co-owners of Taste of Siam restaurant located in the Elmwood village.
Their father Sing was born in Thailand and their mother Keooudone was born in nearby Laos. Sing became a Monk at the age of seven as religion was important to him growing up. He was an excellent chef and cooked many meals in the refugee camp using authentic family recipes.
Mimi visits a Buddhist Temple in nearby Henrietta, N.Y. as both food and religion
have been important elements in her family culture. Mimi and Bobby feel it is important to pass these family recipes and religious practices down to younger generations.
Both have been around the restaurant industry since they arrived to the U.S. as young children. Their restaurant, Taste of Siam, prepares dishes with family recipes that have been passed down for seven generations. Many of these dishes are influenced by the Esan style of cooking, which is a combination of Thai and Laos cuisine.
During his time in the restaurant business Bobby has noticed that
“Food brings all people together regardless of race or culture.”
As Asian Americans some family members have experienced discrimination in the past. Mimi and Bobby comment that
“For us the restaurant business has been difficult at times but we feel that it is our duty to continue our father’s legacy and keep these traditions alive.”
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