It’s an unusual mix for sure, but Teddy wouldn’t have it any other way.
In April, Teddy and his wife Nid opened the Rider Cafe on Yaowarat Road in Phuket Town, which is quickly becoming a local hangout.
Previously, the cafe, decorated with motorcycle memorabilia, was situated on the bypass road, near the motorbike service shop Teddy used to own.
But the move to Phuket Town has worked in the couple’s favour, with a lot more foot traffic.
“A lot of people chose not to stay near the beaches because it costs too much.
“A couple of years ago there wasn’t much to do in Phuket Town. But now there are a lot of new venues – music, little restaurants and a lot of art. There are three galleries just on Yaowarat Road alone.
“It’s becoming a good alternative to laying down on the beach with a cocktail.”
With an excellent menu, Rider is becoming known for its burgers, breakfasts and sandwiches, which include the Rider bacon sandwich – bacon, tomato, lettuce and mayo on a wheat baguette for B99.
The Evo Burger comes with a pork or beef patty, tomato, onion, pickle, mayo and fries for B150, while the “upsized” version includes one more patty plus an egg for B199.
As well as the Western food options, there is also a full Thai menu ranging from B70 to B100, plus cakes and desserts from Woody’s Sandwich Shoppe.
“Nothing is precooked or premade, and we try to use local ingredients,” says Teddy.
Teddy’s been in Phuket since 2001, largely involved in the medical industry.
He’s currently director of the Scandinavian Orthopaedic Laboratory, situated on the grounds of Bangkok Hospital Phuket.
In his spare time he can be found playing his bass guitar with the crew at the nearby Rockin’ Angels bar in the evenings, while during the day helps Nid out at the cafe.
Rider Cafe, 30 Yaowarat Road, Phuket Town, 089 470 9470. Open daily except Mondays, 10am to 11pm.