Small Retail Business Spotlight: August 2026

Robert Strong, founder of Pretty Thai

This month’s spotlight features Robert Strong, founder of Pretty Thai, an Austin-based producer of chef-crafted Thai sauces, seasonings and meal solutions inspired by authentic Thai cuisine.

1. Tell us the story of how your business started. What inspired you to open your doors?

I was first introduced to the bold, vibrant flavors of Thailand during my second deployment to Fallujah, Iraq. Later, after traveling to Thailand, I fell in love with the cuisine and became determined to share those authentic flavors with others.

More than a decade ago, my wife Kristen and I launched Pretty Thai For A White Guy, a food truck in Austin, Texas, born from our shared passion for cooking. We met in culinary school, fell in love in the kitchen and discovered a mutual joy in introducing people to authentic Thai food. That passion eventually evolved into Pretty Thai, where we create chef-crafted sauces and seasonings that make it easy for families to enjoy restaurant-quality Thai flavors at home.

2. What makes your business unique in your community or industry?

We're chefs first, not food scientists. Every Pretty Thai product is crafted with real ingredients and authentic Thai flavors without artificial preservatives, fillers, gums or unnecessary additives, so home cooks can create meals they're proud to serve in about 20 minutes. I stay connected in the community by supporting other entrepreneurs in the food sector through my shared kitchen business, Wingman Kitchens, as well as through our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Palmer Nicklaus Foundation, supporting families in children’s hospitals fighting for their child’s life.

3. What's next for your business? Any exciting plans, goals, or dreams on the horizon?

We're expanding beyond sauces into products that make authentic Thai cooking even more accessible, including premium rice noodles, curry seasonings and other chef-crafted meal solutions. At the same time, we're committed to giving back through the Palmer Nicklaus Foundation by supporting culinary programs and providing comfort to families at children's hospitals, because bringing people together through food has always been at the heart of our mission.

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