mentre aspettiamo il taxi per l’aereo e francesc sta studiando l’itinerario per i tre giorni finali sul mekong io colgo l’occasione per lasciare due righe, in inglese purtroppo, su un posticino niente male visto ieri sera…. che mi ha rubato il cuore.

On a quiet side street between busy Le Than Thon and the river, cross the threshold at Mandarin and you enter a quaint, elegant oasis that will have you forgetting the seething city outside. Decor is an upscale Chinese motif with timber beams, fine Chinese screen paintings, and artwork on two open-plan floors. It’s plush but not stuffy, and you’ll feel comfortable in casual clothes or a suit. The staff is professional and attentive but doesn’t hover, and it is helpful with suggestions and explanations. Ask about daily specials and set menus. I had an excellent spicy sautéed beef served in bamboo with rice. For a memorable meal, don’t miss the famed duck done in a sweet “Mandarin style.” The steamed lobster in garlic is as good as it sounds and their seafood steamboat for four is a real coupe. The restaurant features a live classical trio (call ahead for schedule).