
Dinner SOS by Bon Appétit
Behind the Scenes at a Best New Restaurant
Sep 10, 2024
Anna and Ni Nguyen, the chef-owners of the acclaimed Denver restaurant Sap Sua, share their culinary journey and partnership. They discuss how their Vietnamese heritage influences their unique fusion menu. The couple dives into the challenges of running a restaurant together, their diverse cooking influences, and the importance of collaboration in the kitchen. They also reveal how to adapt their recipes for home cooks while maintaining authenticity. The conversation highlights the emotional connections food creates and inspires aspiring chefs.
33:07
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Quick takeaways
- Anna and Nien Nguyen highlight the significance of merging traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern creativity to attract diverse audiences.
- The restaurant Sapsua exemplifies the power of collaboration and open communication, fostering a supportive environment for culinary innovation among the team.
Deep dives
Introduction to Sapsua's Culinary Philosophy
Sapsua, a restaurant in Denver, embodies the concept of continuous improvement reflected in its name, which translates to 'almost' in Vietnamese. The chef-owners, Anna and Nien Nguyen, draw inspiration from their experiences growing up as first-generation Vietnamese Americans, merging traditional Vietnamese dishes with elements of contemporary creativity. They emphasize a playful yet respectful approach to their culinary heritage, often adapting beloved dishes from their childhood while also experimenting with flavors that resonate with a diverse audience. This fusion creates a menu that honors tradition while inviting diners to explore Vietnamese cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
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