Jariya Wannapat of SUNA Thai Kitchen
Photo: PROVIDED PHOTO
BENNINGTON — The Bennington Community Market (BCM) recently announced a new partnership with SUNA Thai Kitchen, bringing authentic Thai cuisine and a new community-centered dining experience to its downtown location at 239 Main Street.
Founded by Jariya Wannapat, who also runs TAAN restaurant at the Southshire Inn, SUNA is more than a restaurant concept, BCM board members said in a press release — “it is a vision for bringing people together through food, culture, education, and community.” The partnership aligns closely with BCM’s mission of strengthening the local food system while creating opportunities for local farmers, entrepreneurs, and community members, they added.
Named after Wannapat’s mother, SUNA reflects the values she learned growing up in Phayao, a small farming community in Northern Thailand.
“Food is more than nourishment,” said Wannapat. “Food is love. Food is sharing. Food is community. My mother taught me to cook with generosity and to always make guests feel welcome. Those values continue to guide everything I do.”
Growing up, Wannapat’s family relied on fresh vegetables from their garden, eggs from their chickens, fruit from their trees, and fish from nearby ponds. Those experiences inspired a lifelong belief that everyone deserves access to fresh food connected to the land.
Through its “Let Us Be Your Kitchen” concept, SUNA will offer a rotating menu of authentic Thai favorites—including Khao Soi, Pad Thai, Green Curry, Drunken Noodles, and Massaman Curry—prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms whenever possible.
“We want BCM to become a place where residents and visitors feel comfortable stopping by throughout the week for lunch or simply to connect with friends and neighbors,” said Wannapat. “Our goal is to make great food accessible every day—not just for special occasions.”
Beyond daily food service, SUNA plans to become an active community partner by offering interactive cooking classes for families and community members, cultural programming highlighting Thai food traditions and wellness, guest chef dinners and pop-up opportunities, and mentorship and collaboration with emerging food entrepreneurs.
The addition of SUNA supports BCM’s broader vision of serving as a year-round food hub that strengthens the local economy, organizers added, supports Vermont farmers and food producers, incubates new businesses, and creates a welcoming community space downtown.
SUNA will begin lunch service at the Market on Wednesday, July 8. Lunch will be offered Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with additional programming and community events to be announced in the coming months.
Dining and Cooking