Meet K-Lin Lim owner, resident mother, mentor, teacher and philanthropist of the Paak Dang Restaurant of Chiang Mai Thailand.

Amongst the many restaurant choices in town, one establishment stands out not only for its riverside view and fresh dishes but also for its profound social impact. Michelin awarded Paak Dang, run by the owner K-Lin Lim, not only for its on-point tastes but also for its mission of “changing lives”. 

K-Lin Lim’s journey to culinary perfection and social entrepreneurship is as inspiring as the dishes she serves. Born and raised in Singapore, a divorcee and single mother with two children, decided that she had enough of the “hustle and grind” of Singapore. For 20 years, the economics graduate had cycled through several careers – as an investment banker and schoolteacher, as well as even opening a tuition centre and property investment firm.

However, for K-Lin Lim, success was not just about accolades and gourmet creations; it was about making a difference and creating a social impact in her community. With this vision in mind, she founded Paak Dang, a culinary haven renowned for its authentic flavors and heartfelt mission.

At the heart of Paak Dang's goodwill is its commitment to empowering disadvantaged youth. Recognizing the challenges faced by teens and kids with troubled pasts, K-Lin Lim opened her restaurant's doors not only to diners but also to those seeking a second chance in life. Through a unique program, Paak Dang provides room and board to these young individuals, along with comprehensive training in the hospitality industry.

Under K-Lin Lim’s guidance, these aspiring chefs and servers learn the art of cooking, the nuances of customer service, and the intricacies of restaurant management. But beyond technical skills, they also receive mentorship, support, and a sense of belonging, instilling confidence and resilience for their journey ahead.

Staff member Chanathip Jatuponsaleebut is now able to converse confidently with diners in English after five months of on-the-job training and English lessons. “I never thought I would speak another language,” said the 19-year-old, who comes from Thailand’s mountainous province of Mae Hong Son, which borders Myanmar. Her life has changed from “black to white”, and the job earns enough money for both herself and to send back home.

Paak Dang has given 24-year-old Nattapong Wongsa a new lease of life. Since the age of 11, he was involved with drugs and had been in jail multiple times. After starting work at Paak Dang more than a year ago, he has stayed out of trouble and is trying to save enough to open a barber shop of his own.

“Without Paak Dang, I will likely be involved in drugs again or back in prison,” he said.
K-Lin Lim said she is happiest when former staff find better jobs or start businesses of their own. “The door is always open for them to come, and always open for them to leave.”

What sets Paak Dang apart is its commitment to education and long-term success. In addition to vocational training, the restaurant offers academic support and encourages its participants to pursue higher education if they so desire. With K-Lin's encouragement and resources, over 20 young individuals have graduated from Paak Dang's program, with some even securing jobs in renowned establishments or venturing into entrepreneurship themselves.

The impact of K-Lin Lim’s endeavour extends far beyond the walls of her restaurant. By investing in the future of these young individuals, she is sowing seeds of positive change in the community, breaking cycles of poverty and disadvantage one meal at a time.
In a world where success is often measured by profit margins and accolades, K-Lin Lim’s story reminds one of the powers of compassion, empathy, and giving back. Through Paak Dang, she proves that culinary excellence and social responsibility can go hand in hand, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends the realm of food.

As diners enjoy in the scenic view and talented dishes, they are also partaking in a greater feast—a celebration of resilience, opportunity, and the transformative power of a second chance. And behind it all is K-Lin Lim, an entrepreneur, a mentor, and a visionary of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.