Neu
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA | JANUARY 2024
Presented by Basil Hayden
In the heart of Minneapolis' chic and historic North Loop neighborhood, a winter supper unfolded, transforming the Neu Neu into a culinary haven inspired by the Minnesota Prairie. Renowned Chef Yia Vang took center stage, crafting a Hmong feast that paid homage to his heritage and family, weaving a tapestry of flavors that resonated with authenticity. In collaboration with the incredible design talents of Maven Events, we brought the outdoors in, creating a cozy and natural atmosphere that perfectly complemented the North Loop vibe. As Rodney Strong wines graced the tables, the evening's Featured Partner, Basil Hayden, added a touch of sophistication with two exquisite cocktails for the welcome hour and a third, expertly paired with dessert. Against the backdrop of a Minneapolis winter, this supper celebrated the rich tapestry of culture and culinary artistry, a testament to the vibrant spirit of the North Loop.
WELCOME
We welcomed our guests with two stunning Basil Hayden cocktails: Old Fashioned - Basil Hayden, palm sugar, pho bitters, banana leaf + My Thai - Basil Hayden, orgeat, lime, orange curaçao, mekhong run
They were both perfect to warm us up during the outdoor welcome hour and start celebrating our time together!
A MENU BY YIA VANG
Chef Yia Vang based in Minneapolis and his talented team prepared an incredibly thoughtful and personal feast celebrating his Hmong heritage and Minnesota upbringing. This is the second time working with Chef Yia and he always brings a spirit of reflectiveness and community alongside his incredible food.
MENU
WELCOME
Grilled Sticky Rice
Savory Tea
Cocktail: Basil Hayden My Thai + Basil Hayden Old Fashioned
AMUSE-BOUCHE
Spicy Cucumber Salad
FIRST
Bao Rolls with uni butter
Shaved Brussels Salad - fried shallot, watermelon radish, blood orange, mint, dill, Thai basil, cured duck egg yolk, puffed rice, fried brussels leaves
Wine: 2022 Rodney Strong Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County
SECOND
Szechuan Lamb Bolognese - rice noodles, pickled + fermented vegetables, maple garlic foam
Wine: 2019 Rodney Strong Old Vines Zinfandel, Sonoma County
MAIN
Tamarind Glazed Pork Chops - grilled double cut pork chops with lemongrass, ginger, garlic, shallots, fish + oyster sauce
Wine: 2017 Rodney Strong Symmetry Red Blend, Sonoma County
DESSERT
Bake Sale Bars Platter - Miso scotcharoo, Szechuan coffee brownie, Thai tea custard bars served with peanut soy milk
Cocktail: Thai Iced Coffee - toasted Basil Hayden, five spice, iced coffee, sweet milk
WINE PAIRINGS
Stunning wines from Rodney Strong Vineyards were the perfect compliment to the local menu. The pairings were adored by all of our guests.
NIGHTCAP
We ended our evening with a playful take on Minnesota desserts - a bake sale bar platter - Miso scotcharoo, Szechuan coffee brownie, and Thai tea custard bars paired with another incredible cocktail by Basil Hayden - Thai Iced Coffee with toasted Basil Hayden, five spice, iced coffee, sweet milk. A perfect close to our beautiful night together!
SECRET LOCATION: THE NEU NEU
The Neu Neu in the North Loop was the perfect urban retreat for our Supper. It was the perfect location to foster connectivity and community.