Weekend Plate: A Night on the Town

I recently took my lovely grandparents out to dinner. Grandpa used to work for the State Department, mostly living in Asian countries, so authentic food is seriously appreciated. This particular hole in the wall restaurant is one of my favorites. The food is so multidimensional, but the staff is the BEST. The owner came to talk to us during dinner and she mentioned something I found incredibly interesting.

When she lived in Vietnam, men did not cook at all. Once she moved to the U.S.,  she was shocked to see men in the kitchen. “All of your food is so heavy, and you eat so much, no wonder you need big men to lift it!”

So true. How many other countries pride themselves on serving the six pound burger, the casserole, and the deep fried Snickers bar? I always love to hear about different food cultures, and talking to this restaurant owner was the most honest and insightful conversations. Take the time next time you dine, to chat up the owner. You might just learn something new.