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Stevens Point resident Pang Lai Lor (center right) cuts the ribbon as she celebrates her family's new ownership of Pho Ever 21 on Hwy. 10 East. (Metro Wire photo)

New Owners take over Pho Ever 21, reintroduce ‘timeless Asian cuisine’

By Bramdi Makuski

STEVENS POINT — Pho Ever 21, a local restaurant known for its timeless Asian cuisine, has officially welcomed new ownership under Pang Lai Lor, marking a fresh chapter for the eatery.

The Portage County Business Council held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 8 to commemorate the occasion, with several ambassadors from local businesses in attendance, and several members of Lor’s family.

Lor, who prefers to go by “Lai,” expressed gratitude for the support of her family, including her husband, Kao Chang, and her assistant manager, Will, both of whom she said were instrumental in her decision to take over the restaurant.

“I threw this idea at my husband, and he just said, ‘Go for it,’ which is not his style at all,” Lor said. “It was a spontaneous decision—within 36 hours of learning it was for sale, I said yes. This opportunity wasn’t even on my radar, but I’m loving it so far.”

Pho Ever 21, located at 5509 Hwy. 10 East, Suite A in Stevens Point, will continue to offer its popular menu with some new additions that Lor described as “fusion flavors.”

The restaurant will maintain its signature dishes, including Pad Thai and Pho, while introducing new offerings like personal recipes for fried rice and egg rolls.

“We’re timeless Asian cuisine,” Lor explained. “We have flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, and more, with our unique touch. Our fruit teas, made with jasmine green or black tea, are also a favorite.”

The restaurant will open with limited hours starting Oct. 9, serving lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 8 p.m. on weekdays. Weekend hours will be 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

Melissa Blenker of Community Insurance & Associates presented Lor with a certificate of appreciation from the Portage County Business Council’s Ambassadors, recognizing Pho Ever 21’s contribution to the area’s growth and prosperity.

Lor, originally from Appleton, has lived in Stevens Point for over 30 years. While this is her first foray into restaurant ownership, she brings a diverse professional background, including experience in customer service and economic support.

“My love language is feeding people,” Lor said. “I’m happiest when I’m helping others through food, and I’m excited to bring that passion to the community.”