Popular Thai restaurant in downtown Macon closes temporarily as chef battles cancer

A popular restaurant featuring Thai cuisine in downtown Macon has temporarily closed.

Chef Tom Sarrtsud, who owns Ladda Bistro at 442 Cherry St. with his wife, Laddavan Sarrtsud, is battling cancer. Their daughter, Jiin Sarrtsud, also works at the restaurant.

“Dearest patrons, friends, and family,” a sign on a front window of the restaurant and a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page read. “Chef Tom was recently diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.

“We have taken the time to process the news as a family as it was a huge shock to us and after great consideration, Ladda Bistro will be temporarily closing until further notice. We feel that this is the best option, so that it will allow him to care for himself and spend more time with his family and loved ones. We thank you guys for your continuous support.”

An outpouring of support came in response to the Facebook post, with commenters sending love, thoughts, best wishes and prayers for healing.

“Chef Tom is a beautiful soul,” Jessica White posted. “I pray for his healing and strength through this process.”

Ret Thompson posted:

“Praying for you all. I remember Tom from working with him at the kitchen at Wesleyan. He was always so kind, happy, and greeted everyone with a smile. I never forgot that about him. I got to eat at Ladda Bistro around the time they first opened and all of his food is delicious and beautiful.”

Ladda Bistro celebrated its grand opening Dec. 2, 2016 in the same location of the Lemongrass that had closed earlier that year, according to Telegraph archives. The Sarrtsuds had been partners in Lemongrass.

They opened Ladda Bistro with a redesigned dining area to accommodate more diners.

The small restaurant is located next to Theatre Macon.

This story was originally published April 13, 2022 at 11:43 AM.