In an old house once occupied by the American military in Taichung, Taiwan, one can find the Vietnamese restaurant “小夏天 Petit été”. Drawing elements from the French colonial days in Vietnam, the restaurant exhibits a quality of delicacy and uniqueness. One would never guess that the background of the owner of this quaint restaurant was not always in the culinary arts, but originally in the finance industry.

That owner, Josie Chang, is an outgoing and passionate woman who exemplifies the strong traits of a Leo zodiac sign. When her customers arrive, she is masterfully preparing in the kitchen, serving plates of refreshing and finger-licking Vietnamese cuisine. While dining, her customers can listen to the stories of her travels through Vietnam, allowing them to explore Vietnam through tastes and flavours, and to see her love and affection for her friends and the people of Vietnam. It is through her restaurant, “Petit été”, that many Taiwanese have begun to learn about Vietnam!

As a lover of travelling, Josie embarked on her first trip to Vietnam because of her passion for French culture. Arriving in the city of Dalat on a summer trip to Vietnam, she learned to cook authentic Vietnamese home-cooking from local housewives. The elegance and delicacy of Vietnamese culture captivated her heart, driving her to explore, learn, and create her own style of Vietnamese cuisine – one that incorporates various elements and methods of cooking. Josie’s vivid descriptions of Vietnam, and the beauty of Vietnam reflected in her eyes generates curiosity within an individual. You cannot ignore the captivating lives of the Vietnamese people! 

Are you wondering how someone – someone with a background as a white-collar worker in the Taipei finance industry – could be so deeply in love with Vietnam? TAIWANfest invites you to join Josie’s cooking class, and through her stories and food, visit the bridge of friendship she has built through food between two countries! Experience the exchanges of cultures, lifestyles, and all the kindness!