Meet “Oh” — The Heart Behind Oh Vashon
Oh Vashon is the story of Unchalee "Oh" Ayucharoen, whose life has always been shaped by food, family, and hospitality.
Oh grew up in a small town in Thailand, where she spent her early years helping her grandmother prepare food for the family and for sale at the local market. Watching her grandmother cook—pouring love and care into every dish, smiling through long days of hard work—left a lasting impression.
"I grew up seeing my grandma put her heart into every meal. Even when she was tired, she smiled, knowing she was giving people the best food she could. That passion became mine."
Life eventually brought Oh to the United States. Like many international students, she lived on instant noodles and fast food until she found her first restaurant job. Working in Thai kitchens while feeling homesick awakened powerful memories of home and reminded her how deeply food connects people.
Over the past 20 years, Oh has worked in and managed a variety of Asian restaurants, blending technique, creativity, and a deep love for hospitality.
Why Vashon?
Oh first came to Vashon Island in 2012 as part of the opening crew at May's Kitchen & Bar, where she lived for a year before returning to the mainland to help open Thaiku on Phinney Ridge. After a decade away, life brought her back to Vashon—this time for good.
She is grateful to May and Tom of May's Kitchen & Bar for welcoming her back and giving her the opportunity to return. From the moment she arrived again, Oh knew Vashon was home.
Oh Vashon was created as a space to relax, connect, and enjoy good food. Drawing from Asian cooking techniques and the many people she's met throughout her life and career, Oh creates food that honors her roots while fitting the island.
"I hope to be a small part of the island that helps spread love, joy, and good times through food."
To her grandmother, watching from above: Oh continues to cook with love.
