ABOUT

At Sticky Rice, we believe food is so much more than just a meal—it’s a connection to culture, to family, and to the stories that shape us. Our restaurant is a reflection of those values, a place where tradition meets hospitality, and every dish carries a piece of our story. ​

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The story of Sticky Rice Café begins with Khan Sikarng, who founded the restaurant in 2016. But to truly understand the heart of Sticky Rice, we need to go back to 1975, when Khan was born in Laos. The Vietnam War was ending, and the country was in turmoil. To reunite with Khan’s father, who was from Thailand, Khan’s mother, Phet (also known as Grandma or Mama Khan), made the difficult decision to escape their homeland. With one-year-old Khan on her back, Phet crossed the Mekong River, not knowing if they would survive or ever see their family again.

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For years, they lived in refugee camps, facing harsh conditions, but they stayed strong and together. Eventually, Khan’s father found a sponsor, and after many years of struggle, the family began a new life in the United States.​

This journey of resilience and perseverance has shaped the vision for Sticky Rice Café. ​

Inspired by her mother’s warm, welcoming spirit and their family’s commitment to preserving their Lao heritage, Khan wanted to create a space where people could experience the rich flavors of Lao cuisine in a community-centered, family-style setting.

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Sticky Rice Café is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to honor our heritage and the values that have shaped our family’s life. The restaurant reflects the warmth and hospitality that Grandma showed to everyone who entered her home. By opening Sticky Rice Café, Khan hoped to share that same sense of community, welcoming guests with open arms, and offering a taste of Laos in the heart of Knoxville.

Our pride in our culture is evident in every detail—from the carefully crafted dishes to the welcoming atmosphere. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing our guests enjoy the food, whether it’s through shared moments of joy, or simply watching them dance after a bite.

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At Sticky Rice Café, food is meant to be shared.

Every dish is handmade using the freshest ingredients and traditional Lao recipes passed down through generations of women in our family.

We take great pride in the meals we serve and are passionate about introducing our flavors to those who may be discovering Lao cuisine for the first time. We invite you to gather around the table, pass the plates, and enjoy a meal with us—just as our family has always done.

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We are deeply grateful for the support of our community and proud to share our story with you.

When you visit Sticky Rice Café, we hope you feel like part of the family. 

Thank you for being part of our dream, and we can’t wait to share a meal with you.