My evening at Cabanon Palace in Da Nang was truly
exceptional, blending the rich elegance of French cuisine with a unique
cultural fusion between France and Vietnam. Located near the beautiful
coastline of Da Nang, the restaurant’s stunning views enhance its ambiance,
creating a perfect setting for Chef Helio’s culinary creations, which he has
meticulously crafted to showcase both his French roots and local Vietnamese
influences. Heilio, who hails from Marseille in southern France, spoke
passionately about his journey, explaining how he and his family have embraced
life in Vietnam while continuing to uphold the traditional flavors and recipes
of his homeland.
Chef Helio’s cooking philosophy stems from a deeply ingrained belief that “we are what we eat,” a perspective that resonates with his commitment to honoring French culinary traditions. He noted how many of the spices he uses—peppercorns, lemongrass—are native to Vietnam but were introduced to French cuisine centuries ago through early trade routes. This blending of influences is especially evident in his signature dishes, where he combines French techniques with Vietnamese ingredients. An example is his squid dish, where he applies French cooking methods to enhance the natural flavors of Vietnamese squid, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exotic.
The meal began with imported oysters from the
Atlantic, which Chef Helio refers to as “Buddha oysters.” Unlike the more
robust local varieties, these oysters are smaller, with a delicate texture and
a unique, refined taste—an exquisite, briny experience I’ll never forget; some
of the best I’ve ever tasted. Helio explained his choice to import specific
ingredients like these oysters to maintain the authentic flavors of French
cuisine, while for other dishes, he uses locally-sourced seafood such as spiny
lobster and mussels, which thrive in Vietnam’s coastal waters.
The seafood at Cabanon Palace truly stands out, as Helio
comes from a family of fishermen. His understanding of seafood quality and
freshness is unparalleled, and it’s clear he brings that expertise to his work
here. Every item, from the Australian Black Angus beef to local fish, is
carefully chosen to create dishes that reflect the best of both worlds. The
restaurant’s evolution from serving simple sandwiches and pasta to specializing
in full-fledged Provençal cuisine reflects the popularity of Helio’s culinary
approach among locals and visitors alike, who often remark that his dishes
rival those found in France itself.
Beyond the cuisine, Helio’s commitment to authenticity is
evident in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Cabanon Palace. The
restaurant is run by his family, creating a homey yet elegant vibe. His brother
handles the service, ensuring each guest enjoys a smooth and memorable
experience, while his mother often supervises the kitchen, making sure everything
meets her high standards. It’s a family effort, which Hekio acknowledges as the
secret to their success, emphasizing that his wife’s support in managing
finances and logistics has been instrumental.
Cabanon Palace offers not only food but also a celebration
of culinary tradition. Helio views his role as preserving his family’s culinary
heritage, teaching his children and the local staff the timeless recipes of
southern France. Watching Helio’s passion for his craft and witnessing the
pride he takes in his work was inspiring, as he balances respect for tradition
with a modern touch that appeals to Da Nang’s increasingly international crowd.
After the main course, I couldn’t resist dessert, and the
selection did not disappoint. Each dessert reflected the delicate flavors and
sophistication of French patisserie, with a surprising twist of local
ingredients that added depth and character. By the end of the meal, it was
clear that Cabanon Palace is much more than a restaurant; it’s a cultural
bridge that celebrates the meeting of French and Vietnamese flavors. Helio’s
culinary vision and the warm atmosphere his family brings make every meal at
Cabanon Palace a truly immersive and unforgettable experience in Da Nang.
If you’re looking for a taste of France in Vietnam with a
unique local twist, Cabanon Palace is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
