Evanston’s Cozy Thai Kitchen may have moved — and undergone a slight name alteration — but its signature decor-filled, welcoming environment remains unchanged.
The Evanston staple, formerly called Cozy Noodles & Rice, opened its doors in March at 1741 Maple Ave. Co-owner Bee Nanakorn said uncertainty around the previous building’s future pushed them to move out.
In June 2024, after about 24 years at 1018 Davis St., the restaurant said it was planning to close at the end of the month — garnering public outcry. Cozy eventually extended its move date to mid-September in large part due to this response, Nanakorn said.
“I’m very grateful,” Nanakorn said. “I never thought that these kind of feelings would happen to the people in Evanston, or even myself. When I started to say goodbye to each of my customers — it’s heartbreaking.”
Nanakorn said they decided to move after they heard a neighbor was looking to buy the previous building and potentially establish a development on the site, choosing to leave so they could have more control over the restaurant’s future.
Some Cozy regulars, including Michael Marin, said they think the new location has only added to the appeal of the restaurant.
“The ownership is very consistent, and the design is really unique,” Marin said. “The location now is even better.”
Cozy’s new storefront retains much of the charm of its old spot, and its large collection of American memorabilia remains mostly untouched. Bright action figures and license plates still line the walls, and the restaurant’s life-sized Elvis statue still flanks the door.
These throwbacks to American culture were deliberate, as Nanakorn said she views the decorations as conversation starters for her predominantly American customers.
Dina Mead, who no longer lives in Evanston but has frequented the restaurant since 2005, said the objects remind her of her childhood.
“Not only is the food great, but I love all the little knick-knacks,” Mead said. “It’s nostalgic.”
Nanakorn also emphasized that while the restaurant avoided big menu changes when it moved, it brought some fresh dishes to its new home — including Prik Oog Tacos, chicken tacos with an eponymous sauce.
Nanakorn, who is originally from Thailand, expressed her effusive gratitude for the community’s continued support.
“Thank you, Evanston community, (for giving) me love for all these 24 years,” Nanakorn said. “You guys make 8,562 miles closer to home for me.”
Email: s.baker@dailynorthwestern.com
Related Stories:
— Long-standing Evanston eateries comprise a rich restaurant scene
