Client Story -
New Apsara Palace
A Dream Becomes Reality with New Apsara Restaurant
In July 2024, New Apsara opened its doors, led by a passionate woman and immigrant entrepreneur. Recognizing the lack of Khmer restaurants in White Center, the owner aimed to provide authentic Cambodian flavors to the community.
White Center, known for its diversity, lacked Khmer dining options, making it difficult for locals to enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes. The owner envisioned a welcoming space where people could savor traditional dishes and connect with Khmer culture.
Through hard work and determination, the dream of New Apsara became a reality. The restaurant offers an authentic taste of Cambodia, capturing the hearts and taste buds of the White Center community. By bringing Khmer flavors to the forefront, New Apsara has become a beacon of cultural pride and culinary delight, welcoming everyone who walks through its doors.
A Heartwarming Grand Opening
At the grand opening, the restaurant was met with overwhelming support from the Cambodian community. The owner was deeply touched and grateful for the encouragement and love shown by customers, which gave her the motivation to keep pushing forward. For many Cambodians, stepping into New Apsara was like taking a trip back to their hometown, as the dishes brought back cherished memories. They were thrilled to finally find a place in the U.S. where they could savor the flavors of Cambodia once again, making New Apsara more than just a restaurant—it became a bridge to their roots
Overcoming Challenges as a New Entrepreneur
Opening New Apsara was a bold step into uncharted territory for the owner, who had no prior experience running a restaurant in the U.S. From the very beginning, it was clear that the journey would be full of challenges. The first major hurdle was understanding local laws, which were tough to navigate due to a language barrier. Communication with the remodeling company was also tricky, and the owner relied on her children to help with paperwork and translating English.
The biggest challenge, however, was crafting a menu that would appeal to local tastes. The owner didn’t know what flavors or dishes would resonate with the diverse customer base, so she dedicated time to researching and learning about the food preferences in the area. Despite the obstacles, her determination to serve the best authentic Khmer cuisine kept her moving forward, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth.
Shaping a Menu Inspired by Customers
Feedback from customers played a pivotal role in shaping New Apsara’s menu, the owner took every opportunity to listen closely to her customers. She gathered feedback from everyone who came through the door, eager to learn what they loved and what they felt was missing. Based on this valuable input, the owner carefully adjusted the menu and features favorites like Phnom Penh Noodle, Nhom Banhjok Som Lor Khmer, and Nhom Banhjok Som Lor Curry—dishes that customers were craving.
The real magic came with tweaking the flavors. Understanding that people in the area preferred less sweetness and salt, the owner adjusted her recipes to appeal to a wider range of tastes, making sure the food was enjoyable for everyone—whether young children, teenagers, or older customers. With each adjustment, the menu continued to improve, reflecting the owner’s dedication to not just serving authentic Khmer cuisine, but a menu that resonated deeply with the community.
Fresh, Authentic Khmer Flavors at New Apsara
At New Apsara, every dish is made fresh upon order, ensuring a truly authentic dining experience. The menu features beloved Khmer dishes like Phnom Penh Noodle, Pork Porridge, Chicken Porridge, Pork Fried Rice, Chicken Fried Rice, Nhom Banhjok Som Lor Khmer, Nhom Banhjok Som Lor Curry, Stir-Fried Noodles, Stir-Fried Rice, Lout Chha, and Mikatang Chha. A highlight of the menu is the Cambodian Ratanakiri Coffee, offering a unique and pure flavor straight from Cambodia. Whether you’re dining in, hosting a mini gathering, or planning a large party, New Apsara is ready to serve. Call ahead to place your order or get more details about the restaurant’s offerings.
A Warm Supporting from CACCWA
During a visit to New Apsara, CACCWA staff had the chance to try the delicious food and quickly struck up a conversation with the owner. After discovering that the restaurant was Cambodian-owned, the staff offered their support, asking if there was anything the business needed. The owner was deeply touched by their warmth and expressed that they truly needed the assistance.
From that moment, a strong connection was forged between New Apsara and CACCWA. Since then, CACCWA has been an invaluable partner, regularly sharing resources on grants, packaging regulations, and other important business needs. More recently, CACCWA even helped the owner explore loan programs, providing crucial guidance to support the restaurant’s growth. This ongoing partnership has made a world of difference, helping New Apsara thrive in a competitive market.
Dreaming Big: The Future of New Apsara
Looking ahead, the owner of New Apsara has exciting plans to grow and enhance the restaurant. One key focus is remodeling the interior to create an even more welcoming and comfortable space for customers. Additionally, the owner plans to introduce customized cups featuring a Khmer logo, adding a personal and cultural touch to every order.
The owner is also committed to continually refining the flavors of the food and drinks, ensuring they align with customer preferences while staying true to Khmer authenticity. Most importantly, the safety and well-being of customers remain a top priority, with plans to upgrade the restaurant’s facilities to create a secure and enjoyable environment. These ambitious goals reflect the owner’s dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience and building a lasting legacy in the community.
