Sushi-Thai Too: The Culinary Haven for LPGA Stars at CME Group Tour Championship
A Culinary Retreat for Golfing Elite
In Naples, Florida, the vibrant atmosphere at Sushi-Thai Too is a magnet for the finest golfers on the LPGA Tour. On a lively Friday night, Jeeno Thitikul, one of the tour’s rising stars, relaxed at a long table effortlessly positioned near the bustling kitchen. While the players have the option to order off a diverse menu, the restaurant’s owner, Sathit "Todd" Boonyavairoj, prefers to prepare homemade dishes, bringing a personal touch to the dining experience. This charming establishment is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary retreat that encapsulates the essence of both Thai and Japanese cuisine.
A Hub for Golfers and Their Favorites
Strategically situated across the street from the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Naples, the Sushi-Thai Too location isn’t just Thitikul’s preferred dining spot; it also serves as a nightly gathering for other golfing greats, including Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn. The establishment’s ambiance resonates with the comfort and ease of a home away from home for these world-class athletes. Renowned for their commitment to quality and authenticity, the restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors that captures the hearts and taste buds of tour players.
Friendships Behind the Competition
Thitikul’s best friend, Pajaree Anannarukarn, considers Sushi-Thai Too her premier food destination on the tour. The camaraderie among the players is palpable as they gather in this welcoming environment. The atmosphere grows even more electric as they keep an eye on the CME Group Tour Championship, where Anannarukarn just made the cut, landing at the 60th position, right on the bubble. With Thitikul currently six shots ahead as she shares second place with Nelly Korda, the stakes are high—both in the tournament and at the dinner table.
A Taste of Home
What sets Sushi-Thai Too apart from other dining establishments is its authentic menu that resonates deeply with the players. Thitikul often celebrates her wins with the restaurant’s renowned papaya salad. However, she opts to save the spiciness of the dish for Sunday nights, allowing herself a culinary indulgence away from tournament pressures. "It’s too spicy to eat during the tournament," Thitikul notes, humorously mentioning how "it makes me cry," revealing the strong connection between food and emotion for the Thai star.
The Flavorful Menus of Sushi-Thai Too
The restaurant is well-acclaimed for its extensive menu that appeals to different palates. Anannarukarn’s favorite, the salmon skin salad, is a standout dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors for appetites both big and small. Another local favorite is the Kai Pa Lo, a traditional dish showcasing hard-boiled eggs and tender pork belly, creating a must-try experience for any visitor. The vibrant dishes serve not just as meals but as tiny slices of home that remind players of their roots.
A Host with Warmth
Sathit "Todd" Boonyavairoj exemplifies the spirit of hospitality as he moves seamlessly between tables, chatting with both Thitikul and Anannarukarn during Saturday’s round. His presence adds a personal touch, making Sushi-Thai Too not just a dining facility, but a nurturing space for athletes seeking both comfort food and community during intense competition. As the tournament heats up, Boonyavairoj knows he’ll have to continue floating between tables to ensure every guest feels special and attended to.
Competitive Edge at the Tour Championship
As the CME Group Tour Championship approaches its climax, the anticipation builds. Nelly Korda, in pursuit of her first win of the 2025 season, posted a remarkable score of 65 on Saturday. "It all depends on the weather and pin placements," Korda stated, emphasizing how critical course conditions are for her game strategy. Her insight into the importance of positional play reflects the deep understanding and skill set that elite golfers possess.
Record-Breaking Moments
As the field narrows down, Mexico’s Gaby Lopez made headlines by tying the course record with an astounding 10-under 62 on Day 3. Meanwhile, Jeeno Thitikul, currently one of only two players with two wins during the LPGA season, demonstrated impressive consistency with her round of 64. At just 22 under for the tournament, her skill and poise on the course make her a strong contender for the title.
The Pursuit of Greatness
A victory in this prestigious tournament would place Jeeno Thitikul among elite company, marking a clean sweep of significant awards including the Rolex Player of the Year, the Vare Trophy for the lowest scoring average, and the year-end money title—culminating her incredible journey with a substantial $4 million payday. The stakes are monumental, not just for her career but for the legacy she’s building in women’s golf.
A Promise of Papaya Salad
No matter the outcome of the tournament, Thitikul will always have one treat to look forward to: the beloved papaya salad from Sushi-Thai Too. Its spicy allure encapsulates both her cultural heritage and the emotional connection she shares with home. In the world of professional golf, where every stroke counts, it’s the comforting embrace of a beloved dish from a cherished restaurant that makes the journey worthwhile.
In conclusion, Sushi-Thai Too stands as a testament to the nourishing power of food, bridging the gap between competition and comfort for the stars of the LPGA. As the tournament unfolds, both on the greens and at the dining table, the restaurant solidifies its role as a culinary haven, fueling the champions of golf through friendship, tradition, and incredible flavors.
