Tinh Gia Vien, 7K/28 Le Thanh Ton St, Hue City

The Vietnam News goes to Hue. Bui Quynh Hoa writes, "Everything must be fresh, fresh, fresh," she insists. "For me, only the best." As I discovered when I followed her into Tinh Gia Vien Restaurant, located 500m east of the Royal Citadel, Madame Ha’s standards are equally high for her restaurant’s ambience and presentation. Entering the private mansion that is Tinh Gia Vien is akin to infiltrating an enchanted land. The gardens are resplendent with tropical flowers, fountains, delicate bonsai and lush trees. Ornate red and gold tables on the large balconies are attended by waitresses dressed in traditional Hue costumes, complete with halo-like headdresses. In addition to her vast knowledge of Hue’s imperial haute cuisine, Madame Ha’s expertise includes nutrition, culinary design and bonsai creation, and she puts them all on display at Tinh Gia Vien,"