Hanloh Thai Food: One of Santa Cruz’s Most Unique Local Food Stories
By Peter Eubank | Santa Cruz Local Guide
When people think of Santa Cruz County, they usually think of beaches, redwoods, surfing, and laid-back coastal living. But one of the best parts of living here is the local food scene—and some of the most memorable businesses are the ones built from personal stories. Hanloh Thai Food is one of them. Founded by chef Lalita Kaewsawang, Hanloh brings deeply personal Thai comfort food to Santa Cruz with a story that starts halfway across the world.
A Story That Started With a Phone Call Home
The name Hanloh comes from Lalita’s experience moving from Thailand to California at age 13. Back then, calling family meant finding a pay phone and using prepaid calling cards. In Thailand, when someone answers the phone, they say:
“Hello.”
That memory became the inspiration behind Hanloh—a name that reflects connection, comfort, and home. It’s a small detail, but it says a lot about the heart behind the business.
Thai Comfort Food, Not Generic Takeout
Hanloh isn’t trying to be generic Thai takeout. The focus is Thai comfort food inspired by dishes Lalita grew up eating. Before starting Hanloh, she worked everywhere from mom-and-pop restaurants to Michelin-starred kitchens, including time training at the acclaimed Manresa. That experience helped shape her standards—but the food itself comes from home.
One standout favorite:
Lemongrass grilled chicken with papaya salad and sticky rice
Classic Thai comfort food done right.
Built the Hard Way
Like many Santa Cruz businesses, Hanloh started lean. Pop-ups. Brewery events. Catering. Building a loyal customer base one order at a time. That flexibility turned out to be a huge advantage. When the pandemic hit, sales reportedly dropped by roughly 90%. Instead of folding, the business pivoted.
The result?
A preorder meal model that gave customers high-quality food at home while giving the business tighter control over labor and food costs. Today, that model remains part of what makes Hanloh work.
Why Santa Cruz Fits
When asked why she stayed in Santa Cruz, Lalita’s answer probably resonates with a lot of locals.
Santa Cruz offers a rare balance:
- access to nature
- beaches and state parks
- enough city energy
- room to breathe
- strong community
That same sense of community helped Hanloh survive and grow. Santa Cruz tends to show up for the businesses it loves.
A Local Recommendation
I’ve personally known Lalita for years—she even catered my wedding—and Hanloh has earned its reputation. If you’re looking for thoughtful, authentic Thai food in Santa Cruz County, it’s worth checking out.
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