Los Angeles, CA–Nestled in the heart of the View Park-Windsor Hills community in Los Angeles, Giti Thai has become a culinary gem on Slauson Avenue, near Overhill across from the iconic Simply Wholesome. But behind the flavorful plates of pad thai and curry, lies a story of collaboration and a commitment to revitalizing the local community.
Jerome Tarver, owner of Giti Thai, initially envisioned a French-Creole restaurant. Having already operated two restaurants—one independently and another with partners—Jerome sought to bring his culinary dreams to life again. However, his plans took a detour when Giti Rezaian, a longtime friend and the building’s business manager, proposed a bold pivot: Thai cuisine.
Giti, an Iranian entrepreneur with a background in business and culinary, had researched the Windsor Hills community and discovered an interest for Thai food. Though Jerome was hesitant, he trusted Giti’s instincts. The duo poured their energy and personal funds into transforming the space, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Opening during the pandemic brought unique challenges. Lines once stretched out the door, but the duo had to quickly adapt to a delivery-focused business model to stay afloat.
“We were riding waves,” Jermoe said, reflecting on the highs and lows of their journey.
The building that houses Giti Thai had once been a hub of activity in the neighborhood, but it had fallen on hard times in recent years. With no assistance from the city, Giti and Jerome invested their own resources to bring their shared vision to life.
For Giti, helping Jerome was deeply personal. Decades earlier, she had turned down an opportunity to open her own restaurant. Now, she was determined to contribute not only to Jerome’s success but also to the revitalization of the building and the surrounding community.
Despite their efforts, navigating the restaurant industry proved difficult—until a chance connection with Brandon Green of the Vermont Slauson Economic Development Center (VSEDC) changed everything.
Brandon Green, a Watts and Long Beach native, brings a wealth of experience, having worked with a company overseeing over 500 restaurants. After meeting Giti and Jerome, Green was asked by Giti to lend his expertise to help their restaurant.
“I prayed on it,” Green shared, explaining that he felt called to help not just the restaurant but the Windsor Hills community as a whole.
The introduction of Green to Giti Thai came through Jared Templeton, a local resident who advocated for keeping quality establishments in Windsor Hills. Jared, familiar with Green’s exceptional work as a restaurant consultant, saw the potential to uplift the restaurant.
“I didn’t want to lose a dope Thai spot,” Jared explained. “I want restaurants where I don’t have to leave my community.”
His passion for supporting local businesses was the bridge that connected Green to Giti Thai, setting the stage for a transformative partnership.
“It’s bigger than Giti Thai. Although Giti Thai is really important, it’s about our community and why it’s important for Giti Thai to be here.” Green shared one sunny afternoon at the restaurant. “It’s why I’m connected with VSEDC as a business advisor.”
Green provided the owners with critical business management support, training, and access to funding. With the support of Green and VSEDC, Giti Thai is will continue serving Windsor Hills residents while contributing to the area’s economic and cultural vibrancy.
“We funnel dollars to our community so that our small businesses, our minority-owned businesses can thrive just like businesses in any community here in America.”
Jerome and Giti’s journey exemplifies what’s possible when people come together across generations and backgrounds to invest in their community. Giti Thai is more than a place to enjoy quality food—it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when resilience, vision, and community come together.
Visit Giti Thai today at Slauson Avenue near Overhill to experience their vibrant dishes and rich story firsthand. 4425 W Slauson Ave, Windsor Hills, CA 90043.
