Thai + ecclectic restaurant identity

For my final assignment, I was tasked with creating a fictional restaurant that combined the themes of Thai culture and eclectic design. I developed two distinct concepts: Café Bua, a vibrant dessert and coffee shop inspired by the symbolism of the lotus flower and traditional Thai artistry, and Bangla KTV, a lively karaoke bar blending Thai influences with a dynamic, modern atmosphere. Each concept was designed to explore unique cultural narratives, which after much research and critique from classmates I decided to push the focus in brining Bangla KTV to life.

Concept 1: Bua Cafe

Concept 2: Bangla ktv

Avoiding Cliches

My research into Thai restaurants in NYC revealed several common clichés, such as generic names that simply include the word 'THAI' and the overuse of Thai-imitated fonts in their branding. To create a more modern and unique identity for this café, I intentionally steered away from these tropes. Instead, I focused on designing a brand that reflects contemporary aesthetics while maintaining subtle, authentic nods to Thai culture.

Final Logo/Advertisement/Mockups

For the illustrations, I embraced a vibrant neon aesthetic, using bright colors to create a lively and modern vibe. The logo design complements this playfulness, with tilted text that suggests movement and energy, aligning with the eclectic theme of the brand.

The menu continues this playful approach, featuring creatively named cocktails and dishes that fuse Western and Thai cuisines. This blend not only reflects the restaurant's unique identity but also invites customers to explore a fun and dynamic dining experience.