Two Thai-Inspired Restaurants Bring Authentic Flavors and Community Spirit to Northern Virginia

Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee and Sisters Thai share a common vision under one family's leadership.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In Northern Virginia's vibrant dining scene, two distinctive establishments - Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee and Sisters Thai - have captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. What many may not realize is that these beloved restaurants share a common thread: they are both the brainchildren of Sumontita 'Tammie' Disayawathana and her husband, Jaturon 'Drew' Srirote, a dynamic couple committed to bringing authentic Thai culture and cuisine to the Washington, D.C. metro area.

Why it matters

The success of Magnolia and Sisters Thai highlights the growing demand for diverse, high-quality dining options in Northern Virginia. The restaurants' commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation also reflects the region's increasing appreciation for international cuisines and experiences.

The details

Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee opened in 2017 as a unique concept in Northern Virginia, filling a void Tammie noticed for Thai-inspired dessert cafes. The two-level cafe features whimsical decor and specializes in Thai-inspired desserts alongside Korean and Japanese treats. Sisters Thai began in 2013 when Tammie opened the first location in Old Town Fairfax, creating a welcoming space for families to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant now has five locations across the DMV area, known for its quality food, exceptional hospitality, and living room-like atmosphere.

  • Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee opened in 2017.
  • Sisters Thai began in January 2013 with the first location in Old Town Fairfax.

The players

Sumontita 'Tammie' Disayawathana

A Bangkok native who arrived in Falls Church, Virginia in 1996 and went on to create the Sisters Group, one of the largest Thai casual dining establishments in the DMV area.

Jaturon 'Drew' Srirote

Tammie's husband, a longtime soccer player who co-founded the Sisters Group with his wife.

Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee

A unique dessert cafe in Vienna, Virginia that specializes in Thai-inspired desserts and drinks.

Sisters Thai

A Thai restaurant with five locations across Northern Virginia and Maryland, known for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.

Chef Prasert Limsumang ('Uncle Moo')

Tammie's uncle and a former soccer coach from Thailand, who provides the culinary expertise behind the Sisters Thai franchise.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The success of Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee and Sisters Thai showcases the growing demand for authentic, high-quality international dining experiences in Northern Virginia. The restaurants' commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation also reflects the region's increasing appreciation for diverse culinary offerings.