16/03/2025
The story of Thai Tulips Restaurant began on September 27, 1999. A family-run business founded by Phinit, Dorreen, and their children, Samuel and Isabella. It all started when I, Dorreen, met Phinit at Thai Cottage Restaurant in Toowoomba in 1996.
Our dream was to open a restaurant or takeaway shop - our passion was sharing our dedication to quality Thai cuisine while building meaningful relationships with family and friends.
The romantic story behind it all began in 1997 when Phinit surprised me with a dozen tulips on my birthday. That same year, he proposed, and I said yes. We were so excited—our dream was about to become a reality.
At the beginning of 1999, Phinit and I moved from Toowoomba to Bundaberg with the help of my brother, Derrick. With a truckload of second-hand equipment and furniture, we set out to establish our restaurant on Bourbong Street, right next to Pizza Hut.
We started with very little - just the bare essentials to launch our restaurant. Slowly, everything came together, from the layout to the colours, and soon it was time to hire and train staff. Finally, on September 27, 1999, we opened our doors. Just two months later our son Samuel was born. Three years after that in 2002 our daughter Isabella joined our family. We relocated our restaurant to Takalvan Street, opposite Salter’s Oval, in 2004.
As the kids grew older, their pôr, Phinit, introduced them to golf, which became both a shared passion and a great fit with our family business. Many memories were made as they balanced school, sports, and play - Thai Tulips became their second home. As they matured, both Samuel and Isabella worked alongside us, developing valuable skills in both the kitchen and front of house.
After 25 years, we have faced many challenges that have only strengthened us. However, the time has come to say goodbye. It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Thai Tulips Restaurant.
To each and every one of you who has supported us over the years - thank you. Your loyalty, patience, and kindness have meant the world to us.
