The term “fusion” in the food world has become the ginger buzz-word that no one likes to use or knowledge anymore, instead, choosing words like, “nouveau” or “modern” in its place to rationalize a menu that interweaves two different types of cuisine or to exemplify a chef’s take on a particular food. What I enjoy (and don’t enjoy) the most is seeing Asian-fusion restaurants and menus. I often deem these places as serving food that tries to introduce Asian cuisine to non-Asian palates, easing in uses of Asian cooking ingredients that aren’t too weird or will freak out the masses. I recently checked out Restaurant Hà that represents themselves in the spirit of a “Bia Loi” – a Vietnamese street corner watering hole that serving quick bites – with a South-East Asian inspired menu.
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Cote des Neiges is one of, (if not the most) culturally diverse neighbourhoods in the entire city that it probably unlocks some sort of achievement in the Quebec proposed Charter of Values. Having grown up in the area, I can attest to the fact that this neighbourhood is diverse, colourful and is exactly what makes this city beautiful. You can walk five minutes in any direction and find the sights, sounds, tastes and flavours of a dozen different countries. Being said, call it a love letter or ode to my hood, here is a list of dishes you need to try when you’re in Cote des Neiges.
In honour of today being Chinese New Year, I’ve finally decided to make my parents proud for once and am pursuing my new career in otolaryngology. If you don’t know what that is, it’s the study of ears, nose and throat. I should also mention that by otolaryngology and the study of ears, nose and throat, I really mean dunking my thick head in the nearest bowl of steaming noodle soup to study how much of it I can eat before surfacing for air. To kick off year 4712 like an S Club party, ‘cos an S Club party don’t stop, I’m going to fill you in on the top 5 Asian noodle soups you need to know about.