There’s a new, intimate gathering spot in town. Perfect for a light nosh and cocktail with friends, it’s Courtney Christiansen’s SuraTini. Sura is Thai for “crafted alcohol” and tini means “right here.”
Courtney’s path to fruition has been a rocky one. “It’s a long story. Kind of a roller coaster. I signed my lease right before COVID. We were remodeling, but we couldn’t open because of restrictions, so the work was halted. I got three different jobs to pay for everything, and we tried to open last summer. We were open for two weekends, then I lost all my help, so I started to do to-go food, but we had a family emergency. So I stopped that. Finally, I have wonderful staff in the kitchen; Chef Jeff Ige is incredibly creative and talented—truly a blessing from God. My mom and sister are helping out until we can find a regular server.”
Courtney has come home to the Rogue Valley after leaving for college and various other jobs. She worked here when it was the original Thai House, and credits her family for their invaluable support in making this place her own.
SuraTini’s inviting interior is a cozy mix of mid-century modern and a touch of Thai culture. With warming wood on the walls, subtle lighting from paper lanterns, and smooth jazz as a soundtrack, the classy ambiance is ideal for relaxing conversation.
Courtney began my feast with a savory chicken soup called Coconut and the Jungle, with coconut, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir, baby corn, and lime. Next came an appealing platter of menu options accented with fresh flowers and microgreens. She uses fresh ingredients, organic when possible, and all dishes are gluten, shellfish, and nut free.
Each ingredient is distinct, yet the sum total equals a yummy meld of flavors not found elsewhere. Even menu names are unique, like Cow and the Moon, a heavenly beef jerky marinated in coriander, chilies, sugar, and fish sauce served with sticky rice and plum sauce. Chicken and the Sun is chicken satay with warm, creamy sunbutter sauce. The royal blue Thai tea is not only tasty, but an impressive feast for the eyes, made with natural butterfly pea flower. The Monsoon cocktail with passionfruit puree, hibiscus simple (she makes), ginger beer, and vodka is luscious.
“We won’t just stay in the Thai lane. I plan to have other influences come in.” Chef Ige is Japanese so expect expanded Asian offerings. Her sister lived in Alaska so you may find Russian dumplings as a weekly special. “Kind of like a melting pot,” Courtney added.
“I was born and raised in Thailand. I love cooking food, making people happy, and mixing drinks. That’s always been something I’ve enjoyed doing. I used to cook at Thai places in high school and worked in various restaurants, and I’ve always wanted my own place to make people happy.
The patio will open during pleasant weather and there are plans for Britt boxes to preorder, possible murder mystery dinners, and other special events.
“We had a nice group of gentlemen who wanted a speakeasy. So we closed off all the windows and made it feel like a speakeasy with secret directions to get here. Might be doing more of those private parties. Also, pop-up chef opportunities, and live music.”
On Saturday nights, they often take food to different groups, like the fire station, to show their appreciation. “We care about the community. I want people to feel welcome and like they’re family.”
SuraTini is open Thursday-Saturday, 5-9pm. Visit the website at www.suratini.com to view their tempting menu.
l-r: Courtney Christiansen and her mom, Jenece Bansmer