DearSugar is celebrating her 30th birthday at one of her favorite restaurants, Le Colonial. After 10, the restaurant turns into a nightclub complete with a DJ and packed dance floor. Dear has rented out the upstairs and will provide her guests with a plethora of appetizers. Le Colonial specializes in scrumptious Vietnamese food. Some of the dishes on the menu include chicken meatballs in lettuce wraps, mango shrimp summer rolls, and mini Vietnamese steak sandwiches. To take a look at these recipes read more
'Wich of the Week: Bánh Mì
In continuing celebration of the Lunar New Year, today's 'Wich of the Week hails from Vietnam, which kicked off the 15-day Tet celebration last week. Bánh mì sandwiches are like the Vietnamese version of a sub, and a delicious side effect of French colonization.

The best thing about bánh mì? They usually cost less than three bucks. But even if they weren't such a bargain, bánh mì would easily be one of my favorite sandwiches. For my latest San Francisco-bánh mì adventure, read more
Fast & Easy Dinner: Chicken Curry with Sweet Potatoes and Carrots
When the weather is cold and stormy, cooking a fragrant and exotic meal is a delicious way to awaken your senses. A chicken curry, rich with lemongrass and ginger, is an excellent dish that will tantalize your tastebuds. The thick smell will warm your kitchen and the colorful sweet potatoes and carrots will brighten your plate. Coconut milk provides a lush texture and red chili flakes add a touch of heat. For the recipe, read more
Yummy Link: Authentic Chicken Pho
I think I'm going to have to bend my "no hot soup in the summer" rule in order to make a batch of authentic chicken pho. Delicious! - Jaden's Steamy Kitchen
Tron Van Nguyen--Amateur Comedian
This guy is the obvious spawn of Borat, but the audience members don't know what to make of him. Apparently, they think that an unfunny Vietnamese dude with a bad fake accent who claims he came to America on a boat and lost all of his children except for the bad one...must be serious. Ha! All hail Tron Van Nguyen--Refugee, Entrepreneur, Amateur Comedian!
Absolutely Gorgeous Vietnamese Coffee Cupcakes

When I was searching for a Vietnamese inspired dessert I stumbled across the most amazing little cupcakes. I know you may be cupcaked out, but I just can't get enough of these sweet treats. Don't be overwhelmed by all of the steps in this recipe, it's actually quite simple if you take it one step at a time and remember that the filling will eventually be covered by the frosting. Vietnamese coffee is a mixture of super strong coffee and condensed milk. The coffee takes the place of your typical cake batter liquid for a distinctive, yet delicious, cupcake. This is delightful for guests and divine for your family so get the recipe for these Vietnamese cupcakes, just read more
Definition: Bun Thit Nuong
Bun Thit Nuong
Vietnamese rice vermicelli noodles served with among other things: fresh vegetables, mint, fish sauce, and grilled, barbequed pork. The noodles are cold and the sauce/pork are hot, making it an ideal dish for summer.
Happy Hour: Soda Chanh (Simple Sparkling Lemonade)
One of my favorite drinks at Vietnamese restaurants is soda chanh, which is essentially a limeade (although sometimes it's lemonade) made from sparkling water. It's wonderfully refreshing and hits the spot on really hot days. The best part is that I don't have to wait until I go out to eat to enjoy it. The recipe is super simple, so you won't have to wait either. To give this recipe a try, read more
Algorithm for Perfect Pho
One of my favorite places for pho is Pho Y #1 in San Jose. The pho there is pretty great and the entire place smells amazingly of basil. However my favorite part of the experience is the menu. On the back of the menu there is an algorithm of pho service. I snagged a picture last time I was there, click on the picture for a larger view, and if you're having a hard time reading it, here's what it says:
Algorithm Of Pho Service
The Health-Concious Choice!
Chef Block
1. Start
2. Prepare & Cook Bouillon for 8 hours - Beef steak, beef bones, water and special spices
3. Steam Rice Noodle - Best brand, approved by the US Customs & Health Dept
4. Slice Raw or Well Done Fresh Beef Steak - Approved by USDA in the market
5. Serve the above in a bowl - May be yours first, second, or third bowl ordered
6. Prepare side dish of fresh vegetable - Available seasonal
To see the rest, read more
Travel To Vietnam In 30 Minutes: Make Banh Mi For Dinner

Who knew you could have a taste of Vietnam in less than 30 minutes? If you make Banh Mi sandwiches tonight for dinner, your taste buds will be transported in no time. Banh Mi is a traditional Vietnamese sandwich made with a French baguette and an assortment of vegetables and meats. The contrasting flavors between the meat and herbs create a fantastic textural sensation. Introduce your family, or yourself, to a new culture and make this tasty treat tonight. It's quick, it's easy, it's new. So get the recipe now, just read more