Tag Archives: southeast asian

New Saigon: An Old Standby

Picture 36Loyal locals have been thronging New Saigon for nearly 25 years—but even the most avid among them have yet to explore every inch of the menu: it’s that big. Denver’s first and foremost Vietnamese restaurant offers literally hundreds of options, from the obvious—pho, noodle bowls, and fresh spring rolls—to the obscure, be it frog’s legs stir-fried with grape leaves, goat cooked and served in a firepot with lotus and taro, or salad with squid, snails, chicken feet and pork ear. And if all that’s not adventurous enough for you, ask about the untranslated items (your server will try to dissuade you, so some persistence is required). Cheap and casual, it’s ever-popular, so go in the off-hours to ensure immediate seating.

Insider’s tip: For a take-home treat, buy a bag of the spicy sesame-cashew beef jerky from the large jars lining the back wall.

Sunda provides an atypical twist on Asian fare

Executive chef Rodelio Aglibot brings a tasty twist to traditional dishes from Japan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other Southeast Asian islands. Sunda is a creation of Billy Dec, Brad Young, and Arturo Gomez: the trio behind Chicago hot spots Rockit Bar & Grill and The Underground. And Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot brings an extensive background in Asian cuisine and culture, recognized by several media outlets as the “Food Buddha.” With cuisine that is accessible, comfortable and fresh, you’re bound to rub your belly after a meal at Sunda.