Portland eatery is offering something different to patrons... and reports say people love it!

PORTLAND, Ore. -- A Thai restaurant in northwest Portland is hoping makeup, wigs and heels will put a new face on its business and its bottom line.

Oasisba, formerly known as Sweet Basil, is stirring up its business by having servers dressed as drag queens. At first glance, it may appear the new name is the only thing different at the restaurant on Glisan Street and 17th Avenue, but once you go inside, the change is clear.

“We’re slowly building our reputation, but people just seem to be really happy with the change,” said Autumn Knight, a drag queen waitress.

The idea came from the owner, who saw a drag show in Thailand.

“You can get a drag show at a lot of places. You can get good food at a lot of places, but we’re the only ones that do good food and good drag at the same time,” said Phaedra Knight, a waitress in drag.

Aside from an occasional bad apple, the servers say most people love the new direction. Autumn Knight said the restaurant's nickname on the streets is "Tranny Thai."

Customers agree that the new twist is working.

“I see a lot more people that visit the place and the entertainment is good,” said customer Aaron Contreras.

So far, neighbors seem to love the restaurant’s new idea. The manager says business is doing well since the change happened a little more than one month ago

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