#Japan #Tokyo #Nén Tokyo #Summer Le #Vegan Experience

Embracing Veganism: Nén Tokyo's New Culinary Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Daikanyama, Nén Tokyo is making waves with its recently launched vegan tasting menu titled 'Sto:ries of Vietnam - Vegan Experience'. Under the leadership of Chef Summer Le, this modern Vietnamese restaurant emphasizes a plant-based approach, showcasing the depth and flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with a unique vegan twist.

A New Chapter for Vietnamese Cuisine

Within just nine months of its opening, Nén Tokyo has earned a spot in the prestigious Michelin Guide Tokyo. This remarkable achievement represents not only the restaurant's commitment to excellence but also the thriving culinary landscape of Vietnamese cuisine in Japan. The recently introduced vegan tasting menu serves as a testament to Nén Tokyo’s philosophy of inclusivity in dining, welcoming not only vegans and vegetarians but also those looking to embrace a more conscious approach to their food choices.

The vegan tasting menu comprises nine thoughtfully crafted dishes, each designed to reflect the same compelling narrative as its traditional counterpart, 'Sto:ries of Vietnam'. The intention is to provide diners with an unparalleled experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese culinary traditions, while also encouraging sustainability and local sourcing.

Cultural Roots of Plant-Based Cuisine

In Vietnam, vegetarianism and plant-based diets hold a significant cultural heritage, deeply intertwined with the country's Buddhist traditions. Observing the lunar cycles, many Vietnamese families pass down the practice of consuming plant-based meals during the new moon and full moon days. For Chef Summer Le, who grew up in Da Nang, this practice is not just a cultural event but a daily way of life. With this in mind, Chef Le designed the vegan menu to share lesser-known facets of Vietnamese cuisine that are often overlooked outside the country.

The vegan experience retains the vibrancy, strength, and complexity of Vietnamese dishes, featuring a variety of ingredients such as mushrooms, tofu, konjac, eggplant, lotus seeds, roasted rice, tree sap, and seasonal fruits. By elegantly incorporating both Vietnamese and Japanese ingredients, Nén Tokyo emphasizes seasonality and sustainability within its culinary practices.

Vegan Tasting Menu Highlights

Diners can expect a journey through flavors and textures with the following menu:

• - First things first: A delightful spoonful of pho spices, onions, and konjac.
• - The paper: Edible 'Dó' paper filled with vegan pate and eggplant.
• - River - Mountain - Sea - Sky: A melange of tofu, curry mousse, and shiitake mushrooms.
• - Balance: A balance of jackfruit, canistel, and Vietnamese-style pesto.
• - The Depth of Nén: Featuring Nén (Vietnamese shallots), seitan, and cassava.
• - Golden: Yuba, kumquat, and rice paper.
• - Ember & Spice: Vegan Bò kho with lotus seeds.
• - Robusta: Lobster coffee paired with vegan yogurt and purple rice.
• - Sunset: Roasted rice and tree sap, a fitting conclusion to the meal.

Among the notable features of the menu is the optional non-alcoholic pairing, curated to elevate the plant-based experience with flavors rooted in plants, fermentation, and fruits. Diners can also opt for an alcohol pairing starting from ¥9,700, mixing traditional and contemporary Vietnamese flavors seamlessly.

About Nén

Founded in 2017, the original Nén Danang has set a precedent for modern Vietnamese dining, earning accolades both domestically and internationally. It espouses the philosophy of being 'Consciously Vietnamese', focusing on integrating environmental considerations with culinary excellence. The restaurant has garnered recognition including the Michelin Green Star, and its sister location in Ho Chi Minh City, Nén Light, continues to receive accolades as well.

Chef Summer Le, with her extensive knowledge of Vietnamese culinary traditions, aims to share immersive experiences that connect diners with the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam. Her influences from time spent studying in Japan enrich her culinary philosophy, melding the aesthetic values of Japanese cuisine with Vietnamese methods.

Visit Nén Tokyo

For those looking to embark on a culinary journey, Nén Tokyo is located at 14-18 Daikanyama-cho, Shibuya, Tokyo. Open for dinner, the restaurant invites guests to reserve a spot and explore the innovative flavors they have to offer. Experience the richness of Vietnamese culture through a vegan lens at Nén Tokyo, where every dish narrates a story.

• - Contact Information:
• - Hours: 6:00 PM - Last seating at 8:00 PM
• - Closed: Mondays
• - Website: Nén Tokyo
• - Instagram: @nen.tokyo
• - Reservation: Table Check

Nén Tokyo redefines the possibilities of Vietnamese cuisine and showcases the brilliance of plant-based dining, inviting everyone to join in the experience.