The Anti-Jet-Set

Sun, bikinis, and margaritas, oh my! Spring break is within sight and most students have probably caught themselves dreaming about beaches rather than midterms. Fortunate ones will spend their breaks soaking up the sun in hot spots like the Bahamas or Cancun, while unfortunates will remain behind in the dreary cold. Yet, with a little imagination, tropical paradise is closer than one may expect.

I first discovered Monsoon, a Vietnamese tropical paradise, while trying to escape an early evening shower. As I sat drenched on the lantern-lit balcony, the whiz of traffic, the buzz of mosquitoes, and even the exaggerated mural of parrots and palm trees added to the charm of this secret paradise.

Really, the only thing missing from this Eden is a couple of piña coladas served in hollowed-out coconuts. For those seeking more gastronomic pleasures, though, the assorted appetizer platter of spring rolls, sugarcane shrimp (remember: the sugarcane is for sucking, not eating), beef sate, grilled lemongrass chicken, and pickle salad should kick off the break to a good start and reconfirm Monsoon’s blissful status.

For a bit more paradise, try the pho. This national dish of Vietnam is a delicate soup served with raw vegetables, cooked noodles, raw or slightly cooked slices of beef, and hoisin sauce. As this dish indicates, Vietnamese food includes a lot of uncooked vegetables and, therefore, salads are a particularly popular part of Vietnam cuisine. I recommend the roast duck salad, a succulent combination of tender duck and crispy cabbage.

Any tropical Elysium is not without its European influence, though. In the case of Vietnam and Monsoon, the impact of French cuisine did not go unrealized. The Monsoon roll, a roll of grilled prawn, scallop, crab meat, mango, and avocado served with French-inspired creamy wasabi, spicy mango, and jalapeno dipping sauces, epitomizes the fusion of the two cuisines.

Whatever your spring break plans though, remember: a slice of paradise is only a few subway stops away.