In reflection of AANHPI (Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander) Heritage Month, recently celebrated in May, Simply Khmer, a culinary gem in Lowell, offers an authentic taste of Cambodia. Beyond its delicious dishes, the restaurant embodies a story of resilience, generosity, and dedication to the local community.

Recently, Simply Khmer celebrated the grand opening of its new location in Chelmsford, marking a significant milestone in their culinary journey with the same dedication and passion that has defined their success. The new Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar in Chelmsford focuses on noodle dishes, featuring a unique Kathiew/Kuy Tiew portion on the menu where patrons can create their own bowl, adding a personalized touch to their dining experience.

While Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar emphasizes noodle specialties like Kuy Tiew and Nom Banh Chok, you can still find the classic Khmer dishes that are beloved by patrons at both the Lowell and Chelmsford locations. Simply Khmer in Lowell offers many traditional Khmer dishes that showcase the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the region. From the iconic Amok Trey/Sa’Muth, a delicate fish poached in coconut cream sauce, to beloved staples like Mee Ka Thang, each dish is crafted with care and precision, showcasing Cambodia’s vibrant food culture for all to enjoy.

You might find yourself wondering, who is behind Simply Khmer? Denise Ban and her partner, Chef Sambath Eang Lee, embarked on their journey from Cambodian refugees to restaurateurs in 2007 when they opened their first location in Lowell, Massachusetts. Their mission was simple yet profound: to share the food they grew up on and to feed their local community.

From day one, Denise and Chef Sambath have gone above and beyond to fulfill their mission, often going the extra mile to support those in need. In 2013, when a residential fire in Lowell left families in dire need, they collaborated with the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, donating two meals a day for six months to feed those affected. Their generosity not only nourished bodies but also provided much-needed comfort and support during a difficult time. This commitment extends further as they focus on empowering young Khmer Americans and supporting local organizations like the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, AgeSpan, and Girls Incorporated of Lowell. Having experienced the challenges of starting anew in a foreign land themselves, Denise and Chef Sambath take pride in providing support and opportunities to the next generation.

The journey of Simply Khmer wouldn’t be complete without the invaluable support of the Entrepreneurship Center (E-Center). Through E-Center resources such as the SBA Microloan program, Denise was able to secure the funding needed to open a second location in Chelmsford. With the guidance of Charles and the E-Center team, Denise navigated the loan application process with ease, ensuring the success of Simply Khmer’s expansion.

Reflecting on her journey with the E-Center, Denise shares, “I didn’t know about CTI until Charles Smith. CTI has a lot of resources and it is a game changer for my business – stress-free with applications, understanding documents and financials is where I struggle a lot with. Charles kept me on my toes and held me accountable.” Denise’s testimonial highlights the transformative impact of the E-Center’s support, underscoring its role in Simply Khmer’s success.

Furthermore, the MGCC Biz-M-Power grant provided by the E-Center allowed Simply Khmer to update its kitchen and furniture in their Lowell location, ensuring that the restaurant continues to thrive and innovate. During her campaign and interactions with the E-Center team, they coordinated Simply Khmer’s participation in the Lowell Winterfest Soup Contest this past February, which resulted in the restaurant winning first prize, further solidifying their reputation as a culinary powerhouse.

Through their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to community, Denise Ban and Chef Sambath Eang Lee have not only built a thriving restaurant but also a beacon of hope and resilience in the heart of Lowell. Simply Khmer is more than just a place to eat; it’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to nourish the body and soul, and to celebrate Khmer culture.

In the vibrant heart of downtown Lowell, Massachusetts, stands Canto Auto School, a testament to resilience, transformation, and the spirit of its owner, Kate Stanley. Hailing from Kenya, Kate’s journey with Canto Auto School began in 2007, but it was not always easy. The years previous to Kate’s ownership of Canto Auto were marked by many challenges.

Taking on the role of savior, Kate faced a daunting task. The auto school was grappling with financial difficulties, but she saw beyond the monetary struggles and recognized an opportunity for revival. The risk was significant. Undeterred, Kate embarked on the journey to obtain the necessary credentials, determined to breathe new life into Canto Auto School.

The early days were a steep learning curve for Kate. With little knowledge of the industry, she quickly acquired the people skills and driving expertise required for success. The journey, however, was far from easy. Kate often felt alone, but her perseverance proved stronger than the challenges she faced.

Strategically located at 150 French Street, Unit 8, Canto Auto School became a community hub catering to a diverse range of individuals. The school’s commitment to inclusivity shines through its services tailored for Spanish, Creole-French, Kenyan, and Portuguese speakers. Canto Auto School became more than just a driving institution; it became a symbol of unity and cultural diversity within Lowell. The school’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond language barriers, welcoming people from all walks of life, especially immigrants seeking driving education.

In 2023, Kate’s journey took a transformative turn when she discovered the Entrepreneurship Center. This pivotal moment marked a significant shift in Canto Auto School’s trajectory. Through the center, Kate accessed vital resources, including business coaching, grants from the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) and the Inclusive Recovery program, and an SBA Microloan facilitated by business advisor Amanda Camerano.

At 71, Kate Stanley remains a workaholic, driven by an insatiable desire to learn and improve. Her story is not just about conquering challenges but embracing lifelong learning and fostering a sense of community. Canto Auto School, under Kate’s guidance, has become a beacon of inspiration, proving that age is no barrier to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. The school stands not only as a driving institution but as a testament to Kate Stanley’s enduring spirit and commitment to empowering individuals on their journey to success.

The story of Mira Ve began with a discovery—a notebook bursting with recipes and aspirations. In 2020, two friends, Carolina Pino and Carolina Rios, stumbled upon a dream that not only captivated taste buds but also intertwined threads of connection within the Lowell community.

Carolina P., raised within the bustling rhythm of restaurants, held the dream of venturing into her own culinary world. In contrast, Carolina R. brought a flair for digital design, and together, their distinct talents seamlessly intertwined, paving the path for their joint culinary pursuit.

One day in 2020, Carolina R. stumbled upon a notebook belonging to Carolina P., filled with recipes. Upon questioning its contents, Carolina P. revealed her lifelong dream—”Mira Ve,” translating to “Hey, look” in English, a phrase reminiscent of Cali, Colombia, where inspiration struck.

This inspiration fueled their ambition, yet reality loomed large—neither knew how to cook beyond the basics. Undeterred, they embarked on a culinary journey, envisioning a menu centered around crafting hotdogs and burgers. During brainstorming, Carolina R. swiftly recognized a missing element: the need for homemade sauces and distinctive flavors. Enter Carolina P., who held the key to these secret recipes.

Their venture began casually, serving friends and family, and swiftly expanded as people sought solace in good food during the pandemic. As their food drew crowds, it dawned on them that this passion could evolve into something bigger. The solution emerged as a food truck—an idea aligning with the demand for quick, delectable take-out meals. However, finances posed a hurdle until they found a lifeline at the Entrepreneurship Center.

At the E-Center, a wealth of resources awaited—business coaching, marketing expertise, and crucially, access to the initial SBA Microloan. This support fueled Mira Ve’s food truck dream, turning aspiration into reality.

Guided by the E-Center team and specifically, Amanda Camerano, our SBA Microloan coordinator, Mira Ve received invaluable guidance. Amanda played a pivotal role, offering ongoing business coaching, fostering strategic discussions, and pinpointing funding avenues. Her involvement at the Entrepreneurship Center proved pivotal in securing a $30,000 forgivable loan via the City of Lowell’s Small Business Expansion Program.

Amanda, in collaboration with Carolina P. and Carolina R., provided unwavering support throughout the application process, ensuring Mira Ve received the necessary assistance to expand their operations. The Entrepreneurship Center’s comprehensive resources and dedicated personnel became the cornerstone of Mira Ve’s transformative journey.

In the whirlwind of their early days, Mira Ve ventured into the food truck domain despite their initial lack of experience.Parking on Merrimack Street became their signature spot, a classroom teaching the art of adapting to demand and serving their delectable offerings every single day. Their strategy evolved through community engagement, from participating in local events like the Lowell Farmers Market to collaborating with neighboring restaurants like Panela. Their aim extended beyond profits; they wanted visibility, aspiring to be more than just a food truck.

Each bustling day marked a milestone, but their journey transcends food—it’s about manifesting a dream into a flavorful reality, one dish at a time. Their menu, inspired by Colombian street food, echoes the vibrant flavors of Colombia. However, their commitment to authenticity goes beyond tradition; they also prioritize inclusivity by offering an array of vegan dishes, showcasing their versatility and dedication.

Thanks to the resources at the E-Center, their dream flourished further. With guidance in business coaching, strategic planning, and crucial financial assistance, Mira Ve has transitioned from a food truck to establishing their own brick-and-mortar location. Now situated at 105 Mammoth Road in Lowell, reachable at (978)-596-6688, their doors are open Monday-Thursday & Sunday from 2-10 pm, Friday 11 am-11 pm, and Saturday 2-11 pm. We invite you to savor their offerings and witness their journey firsthand.