Ancient Hue

Description:

• Opened at the time of writing, Ancient Hue states to be a boutique, leisure destination. Eight towering pillars, symbolizing the eight weapons meant to protect and guard the location, mark the entrance. Oversized plates and serving dishes are used in the restaurant; garnishes on dishes are teetering works of art. If you are a less-is-more kind of person, you will be in small company. Staff members offer mini tours of a traditional Hue house furnished with antique furniture and a clay house that will be home to an art gallery featuring local artists. The menu is based on the feasts of the Nguyen emperors' banquets. A chef, formerly of the Hilton Hanoi Opera, heads up the kitchen and offers creative dishes like chicken and banana blossom salad and grilled minced shrimps on sugar cane. I had the opportunity to sample their entire sherbert selection. Tiny portions of fruit sherbert -- grape, passion fruit, mango, mangosteen, heaven pear -- and scoops of chocolate, strawberry, coconut, and rum raisin ice cream were served in a large martini glass garnished with an artsy slice of deep-fried purple yam.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010