New Thai Restaurant, Ricen, Coming to Cambridge’s Porter Square

A new Thai restaurant, Ricen , is headed to Cambridge ’s Porter Square , taking over the site once occupied by another Thai restaurant, Rod Dee, at 1906 Massachusetts Ave . Spearheading this venture are two familiar names: Siwapong Siwayawirote and Panupak Kraiwong , the minds behind the recently launched Rolls Sushi in Boston . Joining them is Siwayawirote’s mother, Sasirin (Chef Julie) Siwayawirote , an experienced restaurateur from Thailand who will serve as co-founder and executive chef.

According to Boston Magazine , Ricen promises a menu influenced by Kraiwong’s recent visit to Thailand, offering a diverse selection of rice and noodle dishes. Kraiwong, who is also the former owner of Dakzen, says the group will introduce contemporary Thai cuisine, emphasizing their commitment to sourcing quality ingredients such as fresh calamari and salmon. Ricen’s offerings will center around “jaan diew,” or single-dish meals featuring an entrée paired with either noodles or rice, catering to individual diners rather than large groups sharing multiple à la carte dishes with separate sides.

If all goes according to plan, Ricen will open its doors in May 2024. For updates on the grand opening and other news, be sure to follow the restaurant’s Instagram page.