Ep. 7 - SEA Dreams - FOOD FIGHT! What is the Best National Dish in Southeast Asia?

The Vietnamese with Kenneth Nguyen

In this episode of SEA Dreams, we dive into one of the most delicious debates: which Southeast Asian dish reigns supreme? From pho to pad thai, curries to nasi lemak, the region's culinary diversity is a feast for the senses. But with so many incredible dishes to choose from, how do we decide which one truly takes the crown?

Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen and An Vo (missing our third co host Phil Van) as they are joined by two special guests: Benny Tran, a world traveler and global ambassador for the Los Angeles Football Club, and chef Nguyen Bui, a master private chef, with a deep knowledge of dishes from all corners of the region. Together, they’ll discuss the rich cultural histories, unique flavors, and personal connections behind some of Southeast Asia's most iconic dishes.

From the steaming bowls of pho in Vietnam to the spicy and savory flavors of Thailand's green curry, we explore what makes these dishes so beloved and whether they truly deserve the title of “best.” It’s a flavorful conversation that will have you craving your next meal, no matter where you are.

Tune in for a lively and tasty debate on what makes Southeast Asian cuisine so special—and which dish ultimately comes out on top!

Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.

An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.

Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.

Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.

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Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth Nguyen

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