Latest news with #Vietnamese-inspired
RTÉ News
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- RTÉ News
Exploring the luxury hotels, restaurants and shops of Vietnam
Vietnam has changed a lot over the last 10 years, PA journalist Yolanthe Fawehinmi finds out. "Hi, please can I have a conversation with you?" asks a 12-year-old Vietnamese boy named Peter, along with his younger brother Ethan, as I squeeze my way through a dense crowd of people in Hội An, the charming, well-preserved ancient town in central Vietnam. The pair started learning how to speak English six months ago and were keen to practise with foreign travellers seeking a combination of comfort, culture and adventure. Before we are interrupted by the pervasive motorcycle culture – forcing both locals and tourists to be street smart – Peter and I exchange a few basic questions and answers in English, as his father beams with pride from across the street. As I pass market stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, electric fans, phone accessories, lanterns, knock-off designer clothes and bags, and painted coconut shells, I make the mistake of catching the eye of a business-savvy Vietnamese woman who lures me over and asks me if I want to buy any of the jewellery and trinkets she has made. Hội An is also renowned for its tailoring industry, offering a wide range of custom-made clothing at affordable prices. Yaly Couture was founded by 51-year-old Quynh Trinh, and has since become the place where locals and tourists visit to get their bespoke tailoring done quickly – sometimes as little as three hours, thanks to her 486 members of staff – and at traditional value. Celebrity fans apparently include TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson, 65 – who Trinh says "ran laps around her shop" due to his excitement – and musician Mick Jagger, 82. I decide to have a Vietnamese-inspired navy blue linen two-piece sleeveless top and trouser set made, and Trinh gifts me with a bronze half-neck keyhole maxi dress inspired by one I found on TikTok. I'm assigned to one of her members of staff, who takes all of my measurements, helps me pick out appropriate material, arranges a fitting and makes both of my designs in less than 24 hours. There is still so much to do in Hội An. So to better understand the original ways of Vietnamese tribal culture, I am also transported to their enchanting world at Hội An Lune Center for the Performing Arts with a production of Teh Dar – one of the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus performances of Lune Production. During the performance, guests hear songs that have been sung deep in the forests and whispered around tribal flames for generations. It's also a great opportunity to hear how a buffalo horn sounds with other percussion instruments. Later, after a boat ride down the river, illuminated at night by hundreds of floating lanterns, I have a heartwarming five-course meal, which is gluten-free friendly, at the newly opened La Table Hội An restaurant, where French culinary tradition meets the soul of Vietnam. On my evening stroll, I'm also able to admire the unique architectural structure of the infamous Japanese Bridge, and understand the influence it has on the bridge that also features at Banyan Tree Lăng Cô. Over many years, Vietnam has built a strong reputation for being a backpacker's dream destination. But whilst spending time in Hội An, and at Angsana Lăng Cô and Banyan Tree Lăng Cô, both part of the Laguna Lăng Cô integrated resort, I'm certain it has more to offer. The resorts feature the 18-hole Laguna Golf Lăng Cô, designed by the legendary Sir Nick Faldo, and offers convenient access to all shared facilities and centralised services, including Terra Kids Club and Laguna Water Sports Centre. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô is dedicated to quiet luxury and creating intimate and romantic experiences for couples, and Angsana Lăng Cô is a 220-room safe haven for all of the family to enjoy. The first night at Angsana Lăng Cô set the tone of my time in Vietnam. I'm welcomed with a BBQ dinner party on the private beach – there is no private beach in Vietnam, but it's private at the resort – where all the seafood is sourced directly from the local Cù Dù fishing village, also known as Cua Van in Ha Long Bay. Cù Dù is a unique floating village where residents live in traditional houses on boats and rafts, making a living from fishing and aquaculture. I'm offered a glimpse into the local culture and the stunning natural beauty of the bay, whilst eating everything from lobster, oysters – which were cooked because of pesticides – squid, fish, and papaya salad with shrimp, just to name a few dishes. During a tour of both resorts, it is easy to see how much of the architecture is inspired by local culture. At Angsana Lăng Cô, I stay in the beach suite, which feels like a home away from home. There's a living room and dining area, and access to a private pool with timber deck sun loungers, a kitchenette and a separate bedroom. Every half an hour, from 8am, a Vietnamese-inspired boat takes you on a 10-minute journey down a fairy garden to Banyan Tree Lăng Cô. And at the entrance, there is a traditional cong used to welcome me and other guests. Banyan Tree Lăng Cô – where I end my stay – is where I experience the serenity of the beach pool villa – only a few minutes from the private beach. I have my own private infinity pool with a heated jacuzzi, a timber sun deck and a poolside sala pavilion, so I can truly relax. Indoors, in both rooms, there's a king-sized bed, bath and shower and other modern amenities. Vietnam has changed a lot over the last 10 years, both politically and economically. The commitment the country has to preserve its natural beauty is why older travellers deserve to experience it, too, not just student backpackers.
Irish Examiner
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Examiner
Desire Lines: A versatile Dunnes jacket, family events in Fota, and perfect pizza
The jacket Summer fashion on this lovely island of ours is all about layering. We can see ourselves turning to this delightful pop of colour from Helen Steele's latest collection at festivals, on a hillwalk, grabbing a coffee with friends... a truly versatile jacket. €35. The gift site Check out Wrapped in Kindness, a beautifully curated site stocking over 30 Irish makers. Ten per cent of all sales go to a charity of the customer's choice, with 11 partners to choose from, including Pieta House. Among the brands on offer are incredible vases from Laois based-EDP Creative, pictured. Other wonderful names brands include Studio Byrne, De Danu, Bread and Weather and more. The Buddha bowl Saba and Saba To Go's new Buddha bowls are now available for dine-in and takeaway across six branches in Dublin and Kildare Village. Balancing fresh ingredients and moreish Thai- and Vietnamese-inspired flavours, they offer a summery taste of Asia across 4 flavours, €16.95-17.95. We like the sound of red chicken mango bowl, with chicken marinated in red curry paste, brown and red rice, iceberg lettuce, cucumber, shredded carrots, bird's eye chillies, spring onions, pomegranate. mango, basil and mint in a tangy dressing. The wildlife events One of Fota Wildlife Park's giraffes in front of the Panoramic Wheel. Picture: Darragh Kane Fota Wildlife Park is bringing back its annual summer educational weekends with a programme of interactive, family-oriented events. The three themed weekends covering science, native species, and insect life will be held at Fota Wildlife Park's Education, Conservation and Research Centre (ECRC) and are included with entry. The Native Species Weekend on July 26 and 27 will focus on Ireland's rich biodiversity, with a series of interactive exhibits and biofacts highlighting the country's native wildlife and conservation efforts. Among the organisations taking part are Fota Wildlife Park's Education team, Dublin Zoo, Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Nature Network Ireland, Irish Bee Conservation Project and Atlantic Technological University, Galway. August 16 and 17 will see the return of the Bug Bonanza Weekend. The new panoramic wheel also remains at the park for summer. The pizza With sweeping sea views, Dunmore House's Boatshed Pizza is the place of summer dreams. Nestled in Clonakilty Bay, the award-winning hotel is famous for sea walks, beautiful beaches – and great food. With a state of the art pizza oven on the Sea Terrace, there's a taste of Italy with chef, Paolo Chiappa. Making his own dough and tomato sauce, Paolo sources local ingredients to finish his pizzas with a West Cork accent on an Italian favourite. Using vegetables and herbs from the scenic organic Ocean Garden at Dunmore House (you can also visit this), Paolo adds firm favourites like Toonsbridge mozzarella, O'Neil's black pudding, Gubbeen cheese and Cashel Blue to his menu. The service is another standout, pure down-to-earth, West Cork authenticity. Don't miss it this summer. Open 1-7.30pm, Thurs-Mon. The chocolates Gunpowder Irish Gin and Butlers Chocolates have launched a new range of premium-gin truffles. In-store in Butlers Chocolate Cafés in Dublin, Cork and Belfast International airports, they will roll out to international markets in the coming weeks. The original Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin milk chocolate gin truffle is joined by the summery sounding Sardinian Citrus white chocolate lemon gin truffle and the Californian Orange Citrus milk chocolate orange gin truffle. The watches Perfect for the rebel in your life, Swatch's new No Rules launch has been designed with Mercury Prize- and BRIT-nominees Nova Twins. With names like Lash Out and Distort Mode, the colourful collection brings an edgy post-punk sensibility to the Swiss timepiece, in 5 bold designs. From €90-140. Compiled by Vickie Maye, Nicole Glennon and Jillian Bolger. weekend@
Calgary Herald
13-05-2025
- Business
- Calgary Herald
Where do you want to have a drink tonight? Six Calgary bars are on the top 50 list across Canada
Canada's Best 100 has released its top 50 Best Bars and six Calgary drink spots have made the list. Article content Article content Judges from across Canada voted on their best five experiences at a bar over the last 16 months, and one had to be outside their home province. Article content With the exception of Honi Honi Tiki Lounge in Edmonton, all the Alberta bars to make the list were in Calgary. Article content Article content Missy's This That was Calgary's top bar on the list at number 8. Missy's bartenders mix up 14 house cocktails, serve seven party shots and have an extensive wine, beer and eclectic selection of hard alchohol. With an almost three-page drink menu, it would be difficult to not find something you like. Article content Proof, at number 16, is the longest running Calgary bar on the Canada 100 best bar list, making its debut in 2020. Located at 1st Street and 13th Avenue S.W., Proof has an extensive cocktail menu that includes a new weekly cocktail and weekly specials. Article content Article content Coming in at number 35, Rain Dog Bar is spending its third year as a top 50 bar on the Canada's Best list. Article content 'The zine-style menu, updated two or three times per week, features rarities such as Brasserie Cantillon's Sang Bleu and Temporal Artisan Ales' Void Series — strong ales aged in spirit barrels,' the Canada's Best site says of Rain Dog. Article content Business & Pleasure, a short walk down the street, has made its way onto the list for its first year at number 45. With intriguing plates such Ahi tuna and pickled golden berry crudo, as well beets and blackberries, comes 14 equally inventive cocktails. Specials Wednesday through Sunday pair appetizers with drinks like sparkling wine and their featured classic drinks. Article content Article content View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paper Lantern (@paperlanternyyc) Article content Paper Lantern is also a mainstay on the 100 best bars list, going back to 2022. It is a Vietnamese-inspired, tiki-tinged basement bar below a Chinatown restaurant. With 18 cocktails, four high balls and shots, a selection of Asian beers from Vietnam, Japan and China and from around the world, wine and eight zero alcohol drinks, anyone can enjoy a night at Paper Lantern. You can make it dinner and drinks as well — Paper Lantern's food includes Vietnamese subs, small and medium plates and bar snacks.
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Coffee, cheesesteaks and carne asada: These 17 restaurants just opened around Sacramento
Smash burgers in midtown Sacramento. Vietnamese-inspired cocktails in Folsom. Indian fusion in Antelope. Philly cheesesteaks in Fair Oaks. These 17 new restaurants opened across 12 Sacramento-area cities in March 2025, adding new places to eat in nearly every corner of the region. Four restaurants opened in Sacramento proper, while two opened in Rocklin and Elk Grove. Roseville, Rio Linda, Davis, Fair Oaks, Cool, Folsom, Antelope, Placerville and Woodland all added one apiece. Camino Coffee Mill (3600 Carson Road, Suite B, Placerville): Inspired by the 19th-century Pino Grande lumber mill, this coffee shop from Sierra Taphouse and Pizza owners Christian and Lexi Collins serves empanadas, muffins and other baked goods alongside cappucinos and lattes. Chef Burma (1020 16th St., Suite 10, Sacramento): Jordan Kyu and Myat Mon opened Sacramento's first Burmese restaurant in midtown on March 3, expanding their complex tea leaf salads past My Burma in Davis and Experience Burma Restaurant & Bar in Pleasanton. Dave's Hot Chicken (10325 Fairway Drive, Suite 150, Roseville): This celebrity-backed, Nashville-style fried chicken chain debuted its fourth area location on March 7 in Highland Reserve Marketplace. Delish Pizza (8180 Sheldon Road, Suite 110, Elk Grove): A fast-expanding local pizza chain now in its eighth location, Delish is known for approachable pies topped with barbecued chicken, taco-like ingredients or three different kinds of pepperoni. El Forastero (6710 Five Star Blvd., Rocklin): One of the Sacramento region's few 24-hour restaurants, El Forastero brought its hard-shell tacos, enchiladas and carne asada fries to this Rocklin outpost, its 10th in the region. Field-N-Flame (1521 L St., Sacramento): Spiced lentil fritters, housemade pappardelle and shrimp sautéed in the Greek anise spirit ouzo are all on the menu at Firuz Ozluk's Mediterranean American restaurant, which replaced Seoul St. Midtown (and before that, de Vere's Irish Pub) in downtown Sacramento. Ginza Sushi & Grill (440 Elkhorn Blvd., Rio Linda): The only Japanese restaurant in Rio Linda's slice of Sacramento County, Ginza's rolls, nigiri and noodle soups have attracted locals throughout its soft opening. MF Gyros & Burgers (4789 Granite Drive, Rocklin): Manit Patel became the first franchisee to spin off from MF's base in Foothill Farms when he expanded its lamb gyros, cheeseburgers and falafel platters to Rocklin Square Shopping Center. Muchas Gracias Mexican Food (1830 E. Main St., Woodland): Muchas Gracias' second California location (Redding had the first) began making loaded quesadillas, chorizo plates and late-night chicken fajita burritos on March 7 in downtown Woodland. Naan Twist (7893 Walerga Road, Suite 102, Antelope): A sister concept to Pizza Twist and Taco Twist, Naan Twist is all about Indian fusion (paneer quesadillas, tikka masala burritos, tawa noodle burgers) as well. Nadia's Mac Shack (3006 Highway 49, Suite A, Cool): Nadia Buchwald's signature five-cheese sauce flows over customizable bowls of macaroni and cheese at her homey restaurant in a small town near the Georgetown Divide. Pholicious (9010 Grant Line Road, Elk Grove): This Vietnamese restaurant's specialty is the spicy soup bún bò Huế, though pho, banh mi and vermicelli bowls have also been available since its opening on March 18. Saigon Alley Kitchen + Bar (2770 E. Bidwell St., Suite 600, Folsom): Jimmy Voong and Mymy Nguyen's contemporary Vietnamese restaurant and cocktail bar opened March 20 in Broadstone Marketplace, the third location for garlic noodles and 72-hour pho following the midtown Sacramento original and North Natomas successor. Show Izakaya (110 F St., Davis): Damon Bai and Wendy Wu's Japanese restaurant in downtown Davis serves comforting chicken karaage and bowls of ramen as well as choice nigiri and truffle oil-brushed hamachi. The Mexican Taco Shop (8251 Bruceville Road, Suite 130, Sacramento): South Sacramento's newest taqueria wraps up burritos with shrimp, lengua, fajita veggies and more, and charges less than $3 per street taco. The Shop Midtown (1720 J St., Sacramento): Customers can chow down on Spam-topped teriyaki fries and hearty smash burgers until 2 a.m. on weekends at Tony Ngo's midtown restaurant, decorated with pictures of classic cars and a motorcycle in the dining room. The Steakout Philly Cheesesteaks (8506 Madison Ave., Fair Oaks): Classic Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks oozing cheese sauce and variations with bacon, buffalo sauce or green bell peppers slide across the counter at this fast-casual sandwich shop near Bella Vista High School.
Telegraph
14-03-2025
- Telegraph
A journey through the unique culinary delights of Maine
Maine's talent for food lies in its close-knit community, which pulls together small farms, working waterfronts and a rich native bounty to create dishes that are authentic, unfussy and well worth traveling for. And wherever you are in Maine, don't forget to save room for dessert... Southern Maine Maine's food scene begins at its most southern border in Kittery Foreside. In a quiet waterfront corner of town, the homey Anju Noodle Bar presents standout ramen, kimchi and Korean and Vietnamese-inspired dishes. Start or end the evening at craft cocktail bar The Wallingford Dram, right next door. Across the way, The Black Birch offers a robust beer list featuring craft brews from around the state, and a farm-to-fork menu made for pairing. Kittery also marks the start of the Maine Oyster Trail, an interactive self-guided tour of oyster offerings; download the map for details on oyster farm tours, tours-by-kayak and the best on-the-half-shell around the state. Thirty minutes north, the food journey continues in the former mill town of Biddeford. Start with breakfast at the Palace Diner, serving excellent comfort food classics, including a legendary banana bread, in a vintage dining car. For a midday pick-me-up, hit Time & Tide Coffee for a specialty latte. Grab a pre-dinner cocktail at Round Turn Distilling, makers of Bimini gin, or start your exploration of Maine's robust beer scene hopping from Sacred Profane Tankpub to Banded Brewing to Lucky Pigeon Brewing, Maine's first dedicated gluten-free brewery. Portland Maine's most populated city arguably put the state on the culinary map. Time-honoured favourites include small plates hotspot Central Provisions, upscale seafood and oyster joint Eventide and waterfront heavyweight Scales. For bakery aficionados, while The Holy Donut's potato doughnuts deservedly tend to get a lot of the attention, you'd do well to stake out the early morning lines at Standard Baking Co, where the sellout Saturday morning cardamom buns are worth the early rise to score one. Craft beer fans will want to explore the city's brewery tours and tastings at Oxbow Brewing Company, Austin Street Brewery, and, perhaps most famously, Allagash Brewing Company, which produces some of the best craft beer in the US. Pro tip: the Maine Brewers' Guild site is a great resource for the state's plentiful beer festivals, which happen throughout the year, though a sure bet is Mast Landing's Wavy Days Beer Fest, which features unlimited samples from more than 60 of the state's breweries. The MidCoast In Edgecomb, Glidden Point Oyster Farms have farmed slow-grown oysters in Maine's Damariscotta River and harvested them by hand for more than 30 years. A walking tour of the oyster beds will include a lesson on local aquaculture, a primer in hands-on oyster harvesting, and shucking-and-eating as you go. Your journey up the coast must include a slight detour inland to The Alna Store, where the always-local menu rotates every month. Make reservations well in advance at Nina June in Rockport for Maine-inspired Mediterranean fare from chef Sara Jenkins, who was raised in nearby Camden but educated in Italy, Spain, and Lebanon. Take home the aptly named 'Magic Sauce' after lunch or dinner at Long Grain, or book a cooking class or workshop at Salt Water Farm in Lincolnville, which holds cooking lessons using local ingredients in an old barn overlooking Penobscot Bay. Further afield Lobster abounds in Maine – with arguably two of the best lobster rolls to be had at McLoons Lobster Shack in South Thomaston and Johnny Shucks Maine Lobster at Old Orchard Beach. On Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park, the lobster comes served with a side of spectacular scenery. Try Thurston's Lobster Pound, where the lobsters are sourced from the working waterfront right out back. And for dessert? Well, blueberry pie of course – after all, you're in the Blueberry Capital of the US. Head up the coast to Helen's in Machias for what many have regarded for more than 75 years as Maine's best blueberry pie. It's well worth the drive.
