Meet The Masters Behind Li Bai

Starting his career in his twenties as an assistant at Saigon Floating Hotel - one of the most renowned hotels in Saigon in the past century, Chef Giang has spent his whole life learning and practicing with culinary specialists before becoming Sous Chef at Li Bai's kitchen when Sheraton Saigon had just been inaugurated in 2003. After a short period of time, he was officially Chef de Cuisine of Li Bai Cantonese restaurant and has stuck together with the restaurant till now.

As the captain of the kitchen team, Chef Giang is invariably passionate about his mission of sustaining the worldwide-famous Cantonese culinary culture, as well as keeping the essence and sophistication of Cantonese cuisine in every creation, then bringing a sense of authenticity and wholeness in the experiences of every diner.

Playing a crucial part in establishing a reputable Sheraton Saigon brand offering authentic handcrafted delicacies, Mr. Diep Nhieu - our talented chef with nearly 20 years of commitment at Li Bai restaurant, is known for his meticulousness and extensive knowledge of traditional Chinese cuisine. Let's get to know our experienced chef who breathes life into authentic delights and many other irresistible Cantonese dishes that are widely loved by Li Bai diners.

1. What is the reason for your long-lasting commitment with Li Bai restaurant?

One of the reasons can be mentioned is the working environment with many opportunities to learn, practice and showcase my ability. In addition, the recognition for my efforts from the management team or just simply observing diners enjoy my creations are also the essential factors that make me passionate about my work and want to commit with this place for the long run. 

2. What is your philosophy of as a professional chef?

For me, chefs must have great passion about their job and they must certainly put their hearts into each of their creations. That is shown from the stage of food selection to the stage of food preparation, all of which must exceed quality standards to deliver absolute satisfaction to customers.

3. Name one unique dish at Li Bai that you would like to recommend to all diners?

In addition to the authentic handcrafted delicacies for Dragon Boat or Mid-Autumn Festival, I would like to recommend "Stir-fried scallops and fresh prawns in egg sauce" that is served year-round with the eggs coated in warm oil, creating spongy egg strings in the beautiful golden sauce for a fascinating dining experience.

1. What do you love about your job?

My job requires interacting with many different types of customers, but we always share one thing in common: the love for Chinese cuisine. And what makes me most happy about my job is being able to assist our customers getting the best experience when dining at Li Bai.

2. What would you usually like to do on your days off?

In my free time, I often travel or go out to eat with my dear friends.

3. If you could recommend your favorite dish at Li Bai, what would you recommend to guests?

A dish that not only me but many Li Bai diners love is definitely Peking Duck. I think everyone should try this dish at Li Bai once, you won't be disappointed for sure.

1. What do you love about your job?

My most favorite thing is to interact with diverse customers from all over the world, each customer will have their different cultural stories for me to learn about many fascinating topics. In addition, although people may come from different regions, they all share the same love for Chinese cuisine like I do. 

2. One of your memorable moments when interacting with guests?

There was a time when a mother and daughter, who returned to Vietnam from the US, came to dine in at Li Bai. The special thing is that they came for 3 days in a row and I was very lucky to be able to serve them. She was very friendly and told me about her travel stories in Vietnam after a long time living in the US. She also asked about my profession as well as gave me good advices on both work and life. What I miss the most is knowing that she will come back in the future and continue to share her new stories by the dim sum feast at Li Bai.

3. Name a popular dish that you often recommend to diners?

I usually recommend Peking duck, because I think it is quite special as an iconic staple of Chinese cuisine and diners can taste the authentic Peking flavors through this famous dish at Li Bai. In addition, if diners are keen on trying our dim sum lunch buffet, I will suggest Steamed prawn charcoal dumplings with dried flower bamboo which you will be addicted to once you try because it is super delicious.