Thuy-Tu Tran

Muối Tiêu

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Saturday, May 9, 2026 at the Grand Tasting Reception

Thuy-Tu (pronounced “twee-two”) Tran is the owner and chef of Muối Tiêu, a Vietnamese restaurant in Takoma Park, Maryland, known for its cozy atmosphere and fun take on Vietnamese home-cooking. 
 
Born and raised in Minnesota, Thuy-Tu grew up with her family’s home cooking. Over the years, she developed her own skills as a cook, hosting increasingly elaborate dinner parties for family and friends, and catering for small events. Prior to starting Muối Tiêu, Thuy-Tu enjoyed a rewarding career spanning over a decade in nonprofit fundraising, which also included a pivotal and transformative year-long detour as a sous chef at Doi Moi restaurant in DC. 
 
During the pandemic, Thuy-Tu felt a strong desire to bring the comforting Vietnamese dishes she craved closer to home in Takoma Park. Drawing on her culinary experience and inspiration from her family, she founded Muối Tiêu and launched it as a food truck in December 2022. The food truck received tremendous enthusiasm and support from the Takoma Park community. 
 
In early 2023, Thuy-Tu was presented with a rare opportunity to move into a brick-and-mortar location (the iconic former Mark’s Kitchen space) in the heart of Takoma Park. She jumped at the opportunity. In January 2024, Thuy-Tu and her family opened the current Muối Tiêu restaurant, which offers up even more authentic Vietnamese dishes and fun twists on traditional fare. Muối Tiêu recently celebrated its two-year anniversary.