Help Hla Thu Reopen Bamboo Ridge

Han Tun, left, best friend of Hla Thu. (Photo: John Rojek)

I need help for my friend, Hla Thu, who was owner of Bamboo Ridge restaurant, in the West Side Bazaar, 1432 Niagara St., Buffalo, NY.

Hla Thu was a Burmese refugee who immigrated to the US, and became a US citizen in February. Though he cannot speak English well, he worked hard to become the proud owner of his own restaurant.

However, his landlord did not give him the right kitchen they promised, or anyone who could speak his language, even though the book he signed promised.

He still worked hard to serve delicious meals to grateful customers. Bamboo Ridge became one of the most popular West Side Bazaar restaurants.

But Hla Thu gave up in April, after struggling under management who broke promises, including understanding what he was saying. You can read about it more in this article in Andrew Galarneau’s Four Bites.

My best friend lost his $15K life saving, and still owes $20K to WEDI for his micro loan. Now he is surviving as a delivery driver with a low income. He still dreams of reopening Bamboo Ridge.

It is sad to see my friend like this. I want to see his smile again. I want to see the energy and happiness when he cooks the dishes for his people. Please help support his dream comeback.

He did not want to do this because in Burma, it is shameful to ask for money for your business. I told him we are in America now.

Thank you.