Meet Devin Keopraphay | Chef/Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Devin Keopraphay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Devin, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Like many chefs, I’ve always been addicted to work. The constant pursuit of perfection, endless hours of research & development, living the chef motto of “first one in, last one to leave”. After becoming a father, I realized how much more precious my time became. I was no longer on a pursuit of perfection but in pursuit of happiness Something I couldn’t achieve behind a stove, stuck behind kitchen doors. Becoming the best parent possible was my only concern. Hence why I chose to leave nights and move to focusing my business on brunch.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Rising Tiger is a fast casual Asian American Cafe, specializing in brunch, a unique coffee bar and workspace. From our regular brunch schedule, we also host a plethora of cooking classes! Serving as a workshop as well. Being flexible, listening to what the community needed and wanted but never straying far from our core values or beliefs. I think anyone who has made the daring jump of working themselves can say “it’s never easy!”. Working for yourself is the hardest I’ve worked in my life! Being persistent and dedicated has landed us where we are today. I want people to know that we our invested in our community and work hard every day to become that community cornerstone. To further establish a bridge to expand food boundaries and culture.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Abbot & Wallace distillery for an expert handmade cocktail, Mcintosh Lake for a beautiful paddle on the lake, a delicious square slice at Rosalee’s Pizzeria and wash it all down with a pint at Left Hand Brewing!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A big thank you to the amazing Longmont community for giving us such a warm welcome. A special thank you to Heather Marvin owner & director of The Times Collaborative in downtown Longmont, providing such a beautiful space for us to work in. A thank you to fellow friend & chef, David Collector owner of the food truck Stick Around.

Website: risingtigerco.com

Instagram: risingtigerco

Other: risingtigerco@gmail.com