Partners Aaron Thomas and Kanitta Thongbut, who are both 49, will draw from their different heritage backgrounds and cultures to create a fusion of Thai and Caribbean cuisine at the eaterie in Kettering’s Sheep Street.
Formerly The Cherry Tree pub, then Billionaires, the new pub with restaurant will be known as Border-Clash – a reference to their geographical differences and food styles half-way across the planet.
But the couple have been working on a harmonious menu and special dishes for their opening planned for the start of June – Kanitta bringing her years of experience from the popular Tong Thai restaurant and Aaron’s marketing skills organising Kettering’s annual Jerk Food and Rum Festival.
Aaron said: “We are going to bring back the buzz into Kettering. It’s a unique concept. I’ve researched it and can’t find anywhere else in the UK combining Thai and Caribbean foods – perhaps even the world.”
The Border-Clash brand was founded when setting up the first Jerk Food and Rum Festival. Aaron was stuck for another rum producer so he started his own line combining Caribbean sorrel and sugar from Thailand to create a dark red drink.