The Faces of Family Tradition

Chang Thai Cafe

November 14, 2024

Kendal J. Bush, Photographer,

Left to right: Phisanee Ketsatin and Emshika Alberini

Littleton restauranteur and entrepreneur Emshika Alberini continues to celebrate family stories, values and warmth passed down through generations. “Our family’s culinary journey is steeped in a legacy of traditions that continue to inspire our dishes at Chang Thai Cafe, enriched by the loving memory of my late sister, Ann,” Emshika says. “I have the privilege of capturing beautiful moments with my mom, who once cooked dinner for Thai Queen Sirikit during my dad’s 45 years of service to the Thai King.” After immigrating to the U.S., she earned a master’s degree in organizational management and worked in the corporate world. Though her grandmother, mother and sister worked in restaurants, Emshika never thought she would be a chef. But, the passing of her sister propelled her to open Chang Thai Café in 2008, where she works with her mother. Since then, she has accumulated many accolades. Emshika was featured at the Taste of New England and on the Food Network, and she was recognized as a top business leader by multiple outlets, including the New Hampshire 200 and Cherry Bombe. New to her portfolio is her seafood restaurant, The Catch, managed by executive chef Sam Nutting. “If it takes you back to a time in your memory or brings you closer to your loved ones, your food has fulfilled its mission,” Emshika says. “I love what I do and how it honors my sister’s spirit. She gifted me wonderful opportunities I could never have planned for.”