Our Story
Our name comes from “Manorah” a traditional dance from Southern Thailand that celebrates vitality, connection, and togetherness—values that guide everything we do.
ROOTED IN THAILAND
GROWN IN PORTLAND
Norah began with a simple idea: plant-based food should never mean compromising on flavor.
Inspired by the vibrant food culture of Thailand and the dishes she grew up with, co-founder Ketsuda “Nan” Chaison, together with co-founder Prae Nobnorb, created Norah as a place where plant-based proteins and locally sourced, fresh ingredients take center stage—brought to life with bold spices, fresh herbs, rich sauces, and the balance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and savory flavors that define Thai cooking.
But Norah isn't about recreating tradition exactly as it was.
It's about taking those flavors somewhere new.
Our food brings together Nan’s Thai roots, Prae’s shared vision for modern plant-based dining, influences from across Asia, and the creative spirit of Portland. The result is a Pan-Asian inspired, plant-based menu that is colorful, comforting, playful, and completely satisfying—built around ingredients that are thoughtfully sourced and prepared to let their natural depth shine.
At the heart of it all is Chef Evan Bond, the driving force behind our kitchen. A Portland native with a deep passion for Asian flavors, Evan leads the culinary team with curiosity, precision, and creativity. He is the one who brings Nan and Prae’s vision to life on the plate—refining ideas, building dishes, and ensuring every plate that leaves the kitchen reflects the balance, depth, and intention that define Norah. His dedication and craft are a key part of our success story.
Norah opened its first home on Belmont Street in 2022, followed by our Alberta location in 2024. What started as one neighborhood restaurant has grown into a community of guests, friends, and team members who believe that great food can be both thoughtful and seriously delicious.
You don't have to be vegan to eat at Norah.
You just have to love good food.
Welcome to Norah.
The People Behind Norah
Ketsuda “Nan” Chaison
Thai-born and Portland-based, Nan Chaison is a restaurateur, bar director, and lifelong host at heart. As an immigrant shaped by kitchens, bars, and community, Nan co-founded Norah with Prae Nobnorb to create a space that feels like home.
Rooted in shared memories and genuine care, her approach to hospitality centers on comforting food, thoughtful drinks, and the simple joy of feeling welcomed. For Nan, Norah is a place where people can gather, share a meal, and know they'll be taken care of—just as they are.
Founder
Prae Nobnorb
Originally from Krabi in Southern Thailand, Prae began her career as a geologist after earning a degree in Geological Sciences from the University of Oregon. She worked across Bangkok, the Bay Area, and Las Vegas before an unexpected career shift led her into the restaurant world.
While exploring a new path, she joined one of Nan’s restaurants—an experience that sparked a passion for hospitality and eventually led them to co-found Norah in 2022.
Together, they created Norah as a place to celebrate the diverse flavors of Asia through creative, flavorful plant-based food.
Co-Founder
ChefEvan Bond
A Portland native, Chef Evan Bond has built his career exploring a wide range of cuisines and restaurant styles, developing a particular passion for Thai cooking along the way.
Curiosity is at the heart of Evan's approach to the kitchen. He's constantly learning, experimenting, and finding new ways to bring ingredients and flavors together. At Norah, that curiosity meets the restaurant's plant-based philosophy, helping create food that feels both familiar and unexpected.
For Evan, cooking is ultimately about connection—a way to bring people together and share experiences through food.