April 2025 by Asian Avenue magazine

Mile High Asian Food Week

ASIAN AVENUE - PRESIDENT’S NOTE

Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine

Connect with us! hello@asianavemag.com @asianavemag

Stay tuned for our May edition, which will highlight this year’s Asian American Hero of Colorado Award recipients! The 16th annual awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, May 18 at Social Fabric Hub.

Welcome to our April edition—a month bursting with celebration, creativity, and community! As spring blooms, so does our excitement for Mile High Asian Food Week (April 27–May 3), where we spotlight the amazing Asian chefs, restaurant owners, and creatives who continue to shape Colorado’s vibrant food scene. Get ready to eat, explore, and support local, while enjoying special deals and secret menu items across Colorado. See the vendors at milehighafw.com.

This month, we also shine a light on Fumei Sorteberg, an Asian American artist whose powerful work is not only a reflection of her interests, but also her resilience in navigating life with a disability. Her story is a reminder of the strength in expressing one’s voice through art.

On stage, catch theatre actress Jennifer So in Grand Horizons at Vintage Theatre, bringing both laughter and reflection through a deeply human performance that showcases the unpredictable and enduring nature of love. Inheritance Kitchen also opens this month and you won’t want to miss this immersive experience at Sakura Square!

Lastly, we’re thrilled to share that Social Fabric Hub, a new Asian American cultural and community center, officially opened last month! Asian Avenue Magazine’s office has officially moved into the center. With a full calendar of events in April—from youth outdoor climbing and Easter egg hunts to networking events and community game days—there’s something for everyone. Come by, get involved, and help us build a space rooted in connection and joy.

ASIAN

Publisher

IN THIS ISSUE

JENEVERRE SCHULTZ Graphic

ZHAO

Videographer

Web

NGUYEN

ZHANG Staff

JESSALYN LANGEVIN

on the cover

Mile High Asian Food Week returns for its 3rd annual event (April 27 to May 3) to kick off AANHPI Heritage Month with a weeklong celebration of Asian food and cuisine!

Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine

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Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

8 SPOTLIGHT: Local actress and playwright Jennifer So performs in Grand Horizons at Vintage Theatre

10 ART: Meet artist FuMei Sorteberg, a Denver Artist’s Voice at Access Gallery

12 COVER STORY: Mile High Asian Food

Week spotlights Asian chefs and owners with special deals and menus

15 UPCOMING EVENT: “Inheritance Kitchen” promises an enchanting immersive theatre experience in downtown at Sakura Square

16 RESTAURANT: Kids Table highlights Filipino food and childhood staples

22 ON SCENE: Social Fabric Hub opens 23 LEGAL COLUMN: Power of Attorney 4

RESTAURANT: Olive & Finch’s Mary Nguyen has created a recipe of community care through her restaurants

18 BOOK: Asian Heritage Chefs in White House History: Cooking to the President’s Taste by Adrian Miller and Deborah Chang

20 ON SCENE: Confluence of Festivals exhibit kicks off with artist panel

Event Panelists

RSVP at: tinyurl.com/rsvp-imposter-panel

Colorado Stage Spotlight:

Jennifer So’s theatrical journey leads her to Grand Horizons

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Grand Horizons is a comedic play that explores the complexities of marriage, family dynamics, and aging. The story follows Bill and Nancy, a couple who abruptly decide to divorce after 50 years of marriage, much to the dismay of their adult sons. As the family navigates this unexpected decision, surprising truths about their relationships and the nature of love come to light.

Jennifer So is one of the actresses in Grand Horizons. Asian Avenue Magazine had the chance to interview her about her journey as a Chinese American actress, her passion for acting, and her current role.

A Passion for Performance: From Childhood to Career

Jennifer So’s love for the arts began at the age of three when she took ballet and tap dance classes. Her passion expanded to include piano, music, and theater.

“When I was in elementary school, I got involved in a summer drama camp and thrived in my high school’s theatre program,” she recalled.

She pursued her artistic interests at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, earning a Bachelor of Theatre Arts. She later obtained a technical degree in Radio and Television Broadcasting, her chosen career field. With 14 years of experience in the industry, she continues to pursue theater as her passion project.

The stage first captivated her at the age of seven when she watched The

King and I at the Buell Theatre in downtown Denver.

“I remember being so mesmerized by everyone on stage that, in that moment, I knew I wanted to do something like that someday. It fueled my passion for the arts and led me down the path to where I am today,” she said.

Milestones in Her Career

Before earning her degree, So spent a summer in New York participating in an intensive program at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, where she studied film and television.

After completing her education, she launched her radio career in Lamar, Colorado, before moving to Fort Morgan to work at Media Logic Radio.

“It was there that I truly soared in broadcasting, winning various Colorado Broadcasting Association Awards for Best Regularly Scheduled Entertainment Program, Best Community Affairs Program, among other accolades,” she said. “I’m truly so proud and grateful for all of the support and love from my mentors, teachers, friends, and family. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Five years ago, So was cast in an au-

dio drama podcast following a family’s healing journey after a school shooting.

“It was a very powerful podcast to be part of, as it was based on a true story from Colorado and tackled the topic of gun control in today’s society,” she said.

Titled Foreward Podcast, the project reached the top 2.5% of all podcasts on Apple Podcasts. So hopes to participate in its second season.

Overcoming Challenges in Acting

So’s acting journey was not without obstacles. She often felt overlooked.

“I wasn’t getting cast due to a lack of opportunities, or because I didn’t fit the ‘right look’ or age for a role,” she said.

During her time at the University of Northern Colorado, she was cut from the ‘acting emphasis’ Theatre Program after just one semester. The faculty’s reasoning: “She didn’t grow enough as an actor.”

“I was truly gutted by that,” she confessed. “It sent me down a spiral of, ‘What am I doing with my life?’”

Looking back, she wishes she had transferred to a program that valued her talents. Instead, she persevered by expanding her studies within the theatre program, ultimately gaining a well-rounded education.

Her persistence paid off. Today, she serves as the Executive Director of Insight Colab Theatre, formerly Theatre Esprit Asia, a company founded by Asian American artists. The theatre spotlights inclusive, innovative, and inspiring works that illuminate shared

human experiences.

“It’s incredible to cultivate a space for passionate collaborations, to nurture emerging artists, and to create a place where anything is possible for anyone,” she said.

Representation Matters

Representation in theater and media is deeply important to So.

“I grew up as a first-generation Chinese American on my dad’s side and very close to my heritage,” she said. “My mom does genealogy for her side of the family, and knowing our history helps shape who I am. When we understand our roots, it connects us to our views on society and the world.”

For her, representation offers both inspiration and a sense of belonging. “It gives us community and connection. It provides role models for the next

generation of artists or broadcasters and helps them believe that anything is possible,” she said.

A Personal Connection to Grand Horizons

So is drawn to roles that resonate with her emotionally and that reflect important societal themes.

“I enjoy being part of stories that challenge the audience to expand their worldview and spark conversations about social issues,” she said.

Grand Horizons explores themes of marriage, independence, and communication. One scene highlights Nancy’s realization that she wants her own bank account and dreams of traveling to aid refugees.

“I fully support financial independence in marriage and pursuing dreams like traveling,” So said. “I relate

to Jess because I’ve solo-traveled abroad multiple times and have built a career in broadcasting for 14+ years.”

For So, a fulfilling life means finding joy in one’s career and passions.

“Regardless of marital status, it’s important to have a life where you can come together as a unit while also living authentically as yourself,” she said.

She believes Grand Horizons will resonate with audiences due to its relatable characters, humor, and honest storytelling. Themes of love, family dynamics, aging, and women’s empowerment will spark discussions and self-reflection.

“I think the play will leave audiences wanting more and inspire conversations about the role of women in society and personal relationships,” she said.

Get tickets to Grand Horizons at vintagetheatre.org before April 27.

Jennifer So and Deborah Persoff

From left: Mark Pargola, Deborah Persoff, Jennifer So, Verl Hite, Luke Rahmsdorff-Terry

Credit: RDGPhotography

Beyond Boundaries:

FuMei Sorteberg, a Denver Artist’s Voice at Access Gallery

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Access Gallery shatters conventional notions of artistic expression, providing a vibrant platform for artists with disabilities to cultivate their talents and share their unique perspectives.

More than just a gallery, it’s a dynamic community where creativity flourishes, challenging societal perceptions and celebrating the power of art to transcend limitations.

Through exhibitions, workshops, and professional development opportunities, Access Gallery empowers its artists to achieve their full potential fostering a space where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated.

Meet FuMei Sorteberg

FuMei Sorteberg’s art is a testament to the power of meticulous detail and the evocative nature of color. Working primarily in painting and drawing, Sorteberg crafts worlds that are both familiar and dreamlike, often focusing on natural forms and intricate patterns.

Her work reveals a deep fascination with the subtle variations found in everyday objects and landscapes, transforming them into captivating visual narratives. Each piece is a testament to her dedication, showcasing a level of precision that draws the viewer into a realm of quiet contemplation.

Currently, she works on learning techniques at school. After school, she hopes to work in an art store or gallery. According to her mother, Lynn: “FuMei is in a program at the local

community college for special needs adults. She takes classes there in her area of interest. The classes are modified for these students so they will not earn a degree. She is taking mostly art classes and so is improving her skills. They also teach job skills and living skills and help them to get employment after the three-year program.”

Artistic Process

takes a while to dry. “I’ve only tried it once and I’m not very patient with it. I’m still working on that project,” she confessed.

Inspiration

Some of her favorite themes include cities, architecture, especially Asian buildings, people, and animals. Her preferred pieces include Asian shops, staying close to her Chinese culture and seaside landscapes.

She uses many different social media platforms. For example, Pinterest serves her different ways of looking at pieces of artwork.

“I was looking on Pinterest on how to do a three-canvas painting,” she said. “I thought of doing an Asian painting and wanted it to be from the perspective of looking outside from standing inside the room. So, I drew that with a pencil on three canvases that will look like they are attached.”

She is painting it with meticulous detail, using small brushes with acrylic paint. She plans to share this piece at Arapahoe Community College, where she works and attends classes.

Medium and Style

She uses water color because “it’s easier for me to fix the mistakes.” But she is expanding her horizons by exploring oil but knows this medium

Most of her inspiration comes from Pinterest, Google, her own personal photos, and other people’s animals.

As with most artists, the challenge of selling and marketing has made it difficult for Sorteberg. “I also struggle with communication due to my intellectual disability,” she said. “I, sometimes, have a hard time finding references for things I want to paint.”

Access Gallery

For four years, she has been part of this community. “They help me grow by giving me ideas about how to create my artwork and to get my work out into the community,” she said.

In addition, Access Gallery has connected her with commission work and offers classes for enrichment in different types of art mediums.

Sorteberg’s artistic process is characterized by a patient and deliberate approach. She meticulously builds lay-

ers of color and texture, allowing each element to contribute to the overall harmony of the composition. Her subjects, whether a close-up of a flower or a sweeping vista, are rendered with a delicate touch, revealing a profound appreciation for the beauty inherent in the world around her. This patient exploration of her subject matter allows for a unique and personal connection to each piece, inviting the viewer to share in her quiet observations.

She finds Access Gallery a great way to be part of the art community and lessen the struggle of finding work. She also enjoys the teachers and facilitators of Access Gallery.

“They give me ideas to change things up and some of the teachers have become great friends, support-

Her most recent artwork has been on small canvas paintings in a series of individual Japanese houses.

ing me and believing in my art abilities,” she said.

Artistic Achievements

One of Sorteberg’s projects was a digital painting on a food cart for the local city farms. “I drew it first, then put it onto the computer and colored it,” she said.

Another achievement included an abstract art for the Mayor’s Art Awards. “I had my picture taken with the Mayor of Denver (Mike Johnston),” she said.

Beyond the technical mastery of her work, Sorteberg’s art resonates with a quiet emotional depth. Her pieces possess a sense of serenity and introspection, inviting viewers to slow down and appreciate the subtle nuances of their surroundings.

This thoughtful approach to art-

making, combined with her dedication to her craft, makes FuMei Sorteberg a compelling and significant voice in contemporary art in Denver.

Future Projects

Sorteberg is currently working on an Asian triptych, and she also hopes to find a commission to draw murals or large canvas paintings.

“I would like to have a website that will let people know that I have a disability, but I’m still capable of engaging with commissions,” she said.

---------

After this interview, FuMei worked hard to build her website to share her art. Visit plumflowerstudio.com to see her work or connect with her on Instagram @fm_studio_of_art2023.

FuMei Sorteberg Self Portrait

Mile High Asian Food Week returns for 3rd year

April 27 to May 3, 2025

Mile High Asian Food Week (MHAFW) organizers proudly announce the 80+ participating vendors that are showcasing their promotions for the Third Annual Mile High Asian Food Week on April 27-May 3, 2025.

During this week, which kicks off AANHPI Heritage Month in May, foodies can eat their way through various cuisines from participating AANHPI-owned vendors and receive insider promotions including special discounts, secret menu items, specialty menus, and more. The Mile High Asian Food Week offerings and promotions, which can be filtered by dietary restriction and location, are now live on the website.

“Mile High Asian Food Week is a special week where chefs can showcase specialty dishes that they’ve always wanted to try, collaborate with other businesses and restaurants, or add a fun twist to their standard fare,” says MHAFW founder Joanne Liu.

“There is so much happening that you’ll definitely

want to plan ahead, map out your week, and if necessary, make reservations!”

Mile High Asian Food was established in February 2023 by a small group of foodies and restaurateurs who wanted to create something special for the community. The Food week is run by a group of AANHPI women who volunteer their time to make this community-driven food week happen.

“Mile High Asian Food Week is such a special week that is not only celebrated by diners but also among the AANHPI culinary community,” says Liu. “This is our version of a spirit week and we’re so excited to show everyone what we’ve been working on!”

Mile High Asian Food Week would like to thank Asian Avenue Magazine, Visit Denver, 5280, Do303, and Comrade Brewing Co. for their support.

See the full list of participating vendors and sponsors at milehighafw.com.

2025 Mile High Asian Food Week Vendors

3456tea (Centennial)

ADOBO Restaurant & Bar (Denver)

Baon Supper Club (Pop-up)

Cakeheads Bakery (Centennial)

Canton Palace & Osaka Hibachi

Japanese Steak (Loveland)

CÀ PHÊ, Vietnamese Coffee and Banh

Mi (Thornton)

Carbon Coffee (Aurora)

Chaatwala (Pop-up)

Chi Lin Asian Eatery (Denver)

Chopstix Fusion (Denver)

Coffee Sarap (Denver)

Coffeegraph (Denver)

Colorado Cocoa Pod (Pop-up)

Comrade Brewing Co. (Denver)

CôNu’s Corner (Denver)

Die Die Must Try (Denver)

Everbowl (Arvada, Denver, and Greenwood Village)

GetRight’s (Wheat Ridge)

Hearth and Seoul Herbal Shop (Denver)

Honey Bee Asian Bistro & Sushi (Aurora)

Hop Alley (Denver) - James Beard

Semifinalist

Isan Thai Food Truck (Food Truck)

Kids Table (Pop-up)

Koco Street Food (Food Truck)

Kokoro Restaurant (Arvada and Denver)

Kuluka Boba + Sweets (Westminster)

Le Colonial (Denver)

Lilac Coffee (Denver)

Little Ogre (Pop-up)

Magna Kainan (Denver)

MAKfam (Denver) - James Beard

Semifinalist)

Moge Tea (Lakewood)

Mukja (Food Truck)

Ninja Ramen Mobile (Food Truck)

Noisette (Denver)

Now Pho (Denver)

Olive & Finch (Cherry Creek, Union Station, and DCPA)

Onto Coffee (Denver)

Paborito (Pop-up)

Pho King Rapidos (Pop-up)

Pokeworks (Greenwood Village)

R&B Tacos (Food Truck)

Reckless Noodles (Denver)

Rising Tiger (Pop-up)

Roll It Up Sushi Truck (Food Truck)

sap sua (Denver) - James Beard

Semifinalist

Sesame Sandwiches (Denver)

SugarBlissByLauren (Pop-up)

Sunrise Farm (Pop-up)

Sweet Daruma (Pop-up)

Sweet Rice Flour (Pop-up)

Taeko-san Takeout (Pop-up)

Teahee (Denver)

Tea Street (Denver and Parker)

The Passenger Restaurant (Longmont)

The Sen Tea House (Greenwood Village)

The Sweet Life Culinary Productions (Pop-up)

Tí Cafe (Denver)

TropiTai Delights (Lakewood)

Tuk Tuk Thai Eats (Westminster)

Tum Yumz (Food Truck)

Wild Taco (Denver)

WongWayVeg (Food Truck)

Yomie’s Rice x Yogurt (Denver)

Yong Gung (Aurora)

Yuan Wonton (Denver) - James Beard

Semifinalist

Pho King Rapidos @ ADOBO on 4/28 and @MAKfam on 4/29

Olive & Finch - 3 Denver locations

Special menu: sticky ribs, Dan Dan noodles, Buddha bowl, Saigon sammie

sap sua in Denver

Show proof of purchase at two MHAFW vendors to get a $75 gift card

Nana’s

Mention MHAFW for special items

Buy One

Special

Get One

Dim Sum & Dumplings in Denver, Aurora, Central Park

Sweet Rice Flour in Aurora

Choux,

Mochi Free

MUKJA

menu: Jjajangmyeon Arancini

Fried Rice Balls, Walking Taco, Dubai Hotteok, and Strawberry Dubai Cups

Inheritance Kitchen shares comfort food for your soul with an immersive theatrical world of Five Points memories

Produced by Japanese Arts Network, Opia House, James Brunt, Fronzo D. Gilkey II, Starry Night Productions, and Jessica Eckenrod.

Inheritance Kitchen opens at downtown Denver’s Sakura Square running from April 3 to 27, 2025.

Inheritance Kitchen invites audiences into stories inspired by true events from Denver’s Five Points neighborhood occurring in one (fictional) house across seven decades from the 1960’s to present day. Audiences will arrive during the opening week of a new counterculture cafe in Sakura Square called ‘Block Party’, and they will quickly realize that things there are not quite what they seem. ‘Block Party’ is run

by descendants of three families who lived in the same house in Five Points throughout different decades.

This interactive production encourages exploration which leads to deeper understanding as memories come alive in unexpected ways. Audiences are placed in the center of the house’s stories and are asked to embrace food as a love language, shared resilience, childlike wonder, and cultural inheritance.

“We are excited to bring this original work to Denver,” said Courtney Ozaki-Durgin of Japanese Arts Network.

Inheritance Kitchen Show Information

April 3 to 27, 2025 (Thursdays to Sundays)

Sakura Square, 1905 Lawrence St. Denver, CO 80204

Tickets on sale now! Prices from $45-$65

Learn more and get tickets at: www.InheritanceKitchen.com

Meet the Cast “Aya’s Kitchen”

Ayame - Joyce Yuriko Cole

Mari - Charlotte Quinn

Ayame U/S - Leta Keane

Mari U/S - Leah Cardenas

Fivey - Jordan Hull

“Dia de los Muertos”

Chita - Ava Arangua Francis

Chita - Savanna Arellano

Abuela - Maru Garcia

Juanita - Jordan Hull

“Breakfast at Harriet’s”

CJ - Josiah Peters

Uncle Jerome - TJ Jackson

CJ U/S & Uncle Jerome U/SFronzo Gilkey

“Inheritance Kitchen uplifts the interdependence of our lived experience and is a reminder that our impact on others can be transformative - whether big and small - making ripples that are felt for generations to come.

Inheritance Kitchen is an expansive collaboration which takes place in a converted nine room theater previously housing the sold-out runs of ZOTTO: A Supernatural Japanese Folktale. This production pushes the boundaries of traditional theater, featuring original stories within a world written, directed, and created by Courtney Ozaki-Durgin (Japanese Arts Network), Leah Cardenas (Opia House), James Brunt, and Fronzo D. Gilkey II (Dyfferent Media). Co-produced by Amber Blais (Starry Night Productions) and Jessica Eckenrod, Inheritance Kitchen shares the collective talents of some of the most ground-breaking theater-makers in Colorado.

Inheritance Kitchen is made possible by support from Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, Denver Arts & Venues, Warm Cookies of the Revolution, RedLine Contemporary Art Center INSITE Fund, RiNo Arts District, and Sakura Square.

Kids Table highlights Filipino food and childhood staples

As part of Mile High Asian Food Week, enjoy Kids Table on April 28 at the Friends on Federal Pop-up at ADOBO in Denver.

In the vibrant world of pop-up eateries, Kids Table stands out—not only for its bold, nostalgic flavors but also for its heartfelt mission to bridge cultures and redefine Filipino food through a plant-based lens. At the helm is a passionate chef blending her mixed heritage, childhood memories, and love for animals into a menu that’s both comforting and revolutionary.

“I grew up in a household with a white dad and Filipino mom, so it was difficult trying to figure out where I fit into the world,” Melissa Mooney shares. “I started Kids Table after perfecting a vegan mac and cheese recipe during the pandemic.”

After moving to Denver nearly six years ago, she noticed a lack of vegan options, especially those tied to her Filipino roots. That sparked a journey to recreate her favorite dishes—like lumpia, pancit, and adobo—without animal products, using family recipes and memory as her guide.

“My mom’s chicken adobo in the crockpot, lumpia rolling for parties, the buko pandan—those were constant in my childhood. I started veganizing those dishes because I missed them so much after going vegan almost eight years ago.”

The name Kids Table is playful but meaningful. Mooney said: “The menu was mainly childhood staples—mac and cheese, nachos, crunchwraps. I wanted to evoke that sense of nostalgia and comfort. It’s kind of playing off the idea that you’re never too old to sit at the kids’ table.”

Rather than opening a traditional restaurant, she chose the pop-up model to keep things flexible. “I’ve had people ask if a brick-and-mortar is my goal, but honestly, not really. I like the freedom of choosing how, where, and when I dedicate myself to Kids Table.”

Her most popular dish? Lumpia. “The lumpia, served hot with garlic vinegar sauce, is the top seller. Rolling each one by hand makes it feel personal. And people go wild for the sauce—it’s so simple and acidic, but addictive.”

Despite Filipino cuisine’s meatheavy reputation, she finds the vegan transformation both doable and deeply rewarding. “We’re blessed with so many plant-based meat alternatives now. The biggest challenge is cost, since people are used to paying a certain price for dishes like lumpia or pancit,” said Mooney.

For her pancit bihon, she keeps it close to the original—right down to

the brand of noodles and soy sauce her mom used. “Authenticity for me is about honoring the flavors I grew up with. I even use the same brands as my mom when possible.”

When asked about the reception from traditionalists, she smiles. “One of the best compliments I ever got was from an older woman who said my pandesal was better than her mom’s. My own mom still scoffs at vegan Filipino food, but I’ve seen Filipinos of all ages come to my pop-ups and return.” Looking ahead, Mooney is focusing more on wholesaling and possibly partnering with shared spaces rather than launching a truck or restaurant. Her advice to aspiring chefs is simple: “Start small. Share your food and your culture, but don’t go into debt to do it. Use the recipes passed down in your family—that’s where the soul is.”

At its core, Kids Table is more than a food pop-up—it’s an homage to family, identity, and sustainability. “I want people to walk away feeling like vegan food is more attainable than they thought. And that they can enjoy comforting, nostalgic dishes without harming animals. It’s about being kinder—to ourselves, to each other, and to the planet.”

Kids Table is a mobile food business serving plant-based versions of childhood staples, creating nostalgic and familyderived recipes of Americana and Filipino fare. This MHAFW offer includes: 100% plant-based dishes: halo halo (Filipino shaved ice dessert), chik’n adobo, fried lumpia, pandesal (Filipino sweet roll), and mango sticky rice balls.

By Mary Jenverre Schultz

Credit: Carrie Mitchell

Mary Nguyen’s Recipe for Success: Heart, Heritage,

and Hospitality

By Mary Jenverre Schultz

Chef and restaurateur Mary Nguyen took an unconventional path to culinary success. Trading a stable career in finance for the unpredictability of restaurant life wasn’t easy, but it was rooted in something deeper: a calling.

“I always found myself drawn to the kitchen,” Nguyen reflects. “Hospitality brought me joy and allowed me to express my creativity.” Determined to succeed, she immersed herself in every part of the business—cooking, serving, managing—learning the ins and outs from the ground up. That hands-on experience continues to shape the heart of her restaurant brand, Olive & Finch Collective.

Located in Denver, Olive & Finch is a fine-casual concept known for wholesome meals made from scratch with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Nguyen’s Vietnamese heritage and experience with Japanese cuisine influence her approach to flavor, color, and balance, even if the dishes aren’t traditional. “You’ll find fresh herbs, bright citrus, and a mindful use of umami,” she explains. “It’s food that feels honest and nourishing.”

Nguyen made culinary history as the country’s first female executive sushi chef, breaking barriers in an

industry often resistant to women in leadership—especially in the sushi world. “I had to work twice as hard to earn respect,” she says. “But instead of being discouraged, I used those moments to show that women and minorities belong in this space too.”

Beyond her restaurants, Nguyen is committed to creating opportunities for others. She volunteers with nonprofits that support the AAPI community, trains women overcoming employment barriers, and offers workforce development programs. “It’s about proving that diversity strengthens not only our kitchens but the entire industry,” she says.

She also makes sure to take care of her employees. “By providing fair pay and benefits, we’ve attracted and retained talented individuals who genuinely care about what we do. It’s a win-win: when you invest in your team, they’re motivated to invest back into the business and deliver the best possible experience for our guests.”

Since opening Olive & Finch, Nguyen’s vision has evolved. “It started as a place for simple, wholesome meals. Now, it’s a third place—a community hub where people gather and connect.”

She’s leading a downtown revival

with plans to open four new locations by 2026. Olive & Finch is also expanding into Denver International Airport, offering travelers a taste of local hospitality with grab-and-go options, a QSR, and a specialty coffee spot.

Olive & Finch’s unique model balances speed and quality through a centralized production facility that Nguyen credits as a “game changer.” By owning half of her supply and distribution chain, she can reduce waste, control costs, and ensure consistency.

“We make all our pastries, juices, and grab-and-go items in-house,” she says. “It’s about working smart behind the scenes.”

Nguyen’s menus change with the seasons, drawing inspiration from travel and a commitment to local sourcing. Fan favorites like the Woody Wood—Thanksgiving in sandwich form—and Steak Frites reflect her ability to combine comfort and quality at an accessible price.

Through Olive & Finch, Mary Nguyen has built more than a restaurant— she’s created a community space that reflects her values, her journey, and her unwavering belief that food has the power to bring people together.

Learn more at oliveandfinch.com.

Exploration of Asian American Culinary History at the White House Q&A with Authors Adrian Miller and Deborah Chang

When the rich tapestry of American culinary history is explored, the voices of Colorado-based Adrian Miller and Chef Deborah Chang resonate with profound insight. Miller, a renowned scholar of African American cuisine, and Chang, a dedicated advocate for Asian culinary traditions, bring a unique and powerful lens to the table.

Their collaborative efforts illuminate the often-overlooked intersections of diverse culinary heritages, fostering a deeper understanding of how these traditions have shaped and continue to enrich the American palate.

Together, they weave narratives that celebrate the stories behind the food, highlighting the cultural exchange and historical significance that make American cuisine a vibrant and ever-evolving mosaic.

What inspired you to collaborate on this book and bring the stories of Asian heritage chefs to light?

Adrian: It all started when I discovered Lee Ping Quan’s memoir cook-

book, To a President’s Taste: Being the Reminiscences and Recipes of Lee Ping Quan, Ex-President’s Steward on the Presidential Yacht, U.S.S. Mayflower, while doing research at the Special Collections Department at the University of Denver.

I was working on my book about African American presidential chefs at the time, but I knew I would explore Quan’s story at a later date. Deborah and I were having lunch with a friend in New York, and I floated the idea of collaborating to reprint Quan’s book with updated biographical information and recipes. I’d handle the history, and Deborah would handle the rest, given her culinary training. We pitched it to the White House Historical Association (“WHHA”), and they said yes! WHHA indicated that they would also like information on more Asian heritage chefs. I had some leads and I ran with it.

This book fills a gap in culinary history. Why do you think these stories have been overlooked for so long?

Adrian: Unlike the “foodie” moment that we’re in now, cooking was often considered as menial work, a mark of servitude, rather than something glamorous. There were a few exceptions for fine dining chefs. Even though they cooked for U.S. presidents, there was more curiosity about what the presidents ate than the people who cooked their food. Also, these were people of color, many of whom were not U.S. citizens, so they were on society’s margins.

What do you hope readers will take away from this book about the contributions of Asian chefs?

Adrian: I hope that readers recognize the level of skill the chefs brought to the presidential table and the depth and versatility of their service in presidential hospitality.

Deborah: I believe Chef Quan must have contributed to the spread of Chinese - American food in America. Chinese food uses different cooking techniques and ingredients which we take as accepted today, but must have been

so interesting and new, and I can easily imagine a historical “word-of-mouth” about the meals people had in the White House.

How does this book connect to your previous work exploring the contributions of Black chefs to American cuisine?

Adrian: I see this book as an added dimension to my work on African American presidential chefs. Both groups were viewed as servants, so there isn’t much information available about them. Yet, their superlative ser vice did garner them some media attention. A tragic, key difference is that these were pitted against each other for years. African Americans dominated presidential hospitality positions overall, but on the presidential yacht, they were phased out of positions in order to hire Asian immigrants. After the Spanish American War, white naval officers started preferring Asian servants over Black ones. Still, African and Asian heritage chefs had much in common. They performed excellently, were resilient in the face of racism, and did much to nourish and please the First Families and their guests as well as their shipmates.

wish there was more information available on these cooks. The WHHA was extremely helpful in telling the stories of contemporary Asian heritage chefs by arranging interviews. Readers will learn about so many different chefs, including the current White House executive chef, staff chefs, and guest chefs for state dinners.

Were there any chefs whose stories resonated with you?

Adrian: I’m really moved by Quan’s story: how he got involved in the culinary arts at a very young age; his rising popularity in the U.S. Navy because of his cooking; how talented he was; how beloved he was by the First Families who he served; and the entrepreneurial zeal that he displayed after he retired from presidential food service. I’m also really impressed by Chef Cristeta Comerford, the first Asian heritage woman to run the White House Kitchen. She accomplished so much be cause of her culinary ex cellence, and she was the second longest tenured executive chef in presidential history.

were in servant positions and couldn’t rise in the ranks of the U.S. Navy. Still, the military was a path to U.S. citizenship, and immigrants were willing to endure hardships to meet that goal. Fast forward to current times, one sees much more Asian food showing up on presidential menus, Asians growing their roles in more visible and vocal professions such as movies, politics, CEOS, which reflect a broadening of breakthrough accomplishments of people of Asian heritage.

What are some ongoing challenges and opportunities for representation Asian American chefs in the culinary world today?

Can you share about the research process?

Adrian: For the history section, the foundational work was reviewing Quan’s book. From there, I read several presidential history books, digital historical newspaper archives, and publications by the WHHA. The most challenging research was going through the presidential yacht personnel logs stored at the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Deciphering turn-of-the-twentieth-century handwriting ain’t easy! The biggest challenge was the lack of information on these cooks.

The newspapers went a long way towards filling in some key details, but I

Deborah: I’ve always found it a cognitive dissonance that women still are the primary member in a household responsible for cooking, yet it’s men who achieve fame in the culinary profession, so Chef Comerford’s accomplishments are particularly inspiring.

How does this book contribute to a broader understanding of Asian American history and its impact on American culture?

Adrian: Their experience in presidential food service tracks how Asians were perceived in broader U.S. society. They were acceptable as long as they

Deborah: There’s power in numbers, and the more Asian Americans that enter the culinary profession in a certain way the more impact they will have. And I mean in a high-profile way like owning a restaurant that is Michelin-starred, or owning a chain of restaurants that become well-known. Asian Americans can be the blueprint. Panda Express is an example of one of the largest food chains and what they have done is astounding. They are the leaders and models to be discussed. So instead of viewing Asians as “workers” or “followers”, culinary businesses and chefs are viewed as leaders and trailblazers. It’s up to Asians to vocalize for themselves and to advocate for themselves publicly.

What’s next for you?

Adrian: My next book will be on the history of African American street food vendors: how they represented West Africa, the foods they introduced or embraced from other cultures, the entrepreneurial skill, and their cultural impact.

Deborah: I took time away from cooking for this project with the help of my friend, who is a high school culinary instructor. It has made me re-evaluate how to get back into cooking again.

Adrian Miller

Deborah Chang

Confluence of Festivals inauguration and art talk on “Art and Culture Beyond Borders”

On March 9, the Aurora History Museum organized “Confluence of Festivals” inauguration and art talk on “Art and Culture Beyond Borders” in collaboration with the Colorado Nepalese Community and moderated by photographer Youbesh Dhaubhadel.

Panelists for the art talk included: Swosti Kayastha, Fullbright Scholar from Asian Art Museum San Francisco; Grace Gee, a healing and multimedia artist; and Gil Asakawa, Japanese American author. The event was pre-

sented by Ms. Binisha Shrestha, and explored how art and culture transcends limitations, and engages with social, political, technological, and environmental contexts. The aim was to highlight art’s power to foster inclusivity, spark dialogue, and drive change.

The session was followed by an audience Q&A session and closing remarks by Keith Outcelt, Education Director, Aurora History Museum.

Dhaubhadel’s photographs of festivals in Nepal were on display, while

guests networked and engaged with the panelists after the discussion.

“Confluence of Festivals: Temple Town to the World” continues the museum’s year-long celebration of Aurora’s Nepali community in the Mosaic of Cultures series and will be on display through June 8, 2025. Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions, history, and artistic expressions of Nepal’s cultural capitals: Bhaktapur, Lalitpur and Kathmandu. Connect with the museum on Instagram at @AuroraHistoryCO.

Celebrating Nepali Women’s History

In March 2025, Aurora History Museum’s Speaker Series was focused on women’s history. In association with the Colorado Nepalese Community, Aurora History Museum celebrated “Nepali Women’s History” for the first time. The event was celebrated by learning about important women in Nepal’s history.

The event was opened with a deeply restorative yoga nidra and singing bowl sound healing session by Ms. Anjila Shrestha, who is a sound healer. Attendees mentioned it was an opportunity for them to pause, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

Late Mrs. Ambica Shrestha, Late Mrs. Bhinda Swari Shah, Late Mrs. Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, Mrs. Anuradha Koirala and Sushila Karki have played a significant role in Nepali society and continue to inspire future generations. The event was organized by Binisha Shrestha, founder of Colorado Nepalese Community.

The captivating exhibit “Confluence of Festivals: Temple Town to the World with photography by Youbesh Dhaubhadel were displayed in the same gallery of the museum. Attendees also viewed the exhibit and gave rave reviews. As a whole, it was a tribute to Nepali women recognizing their achievements and acknowledging the ongoing work for gender equality.

City of Denver celebrates women

On March 21, 2025, the Denver Mayor’s Office, Human Rights & Community Partnerships, Women’s Commission and the Denver American Indian Commission celebrated Women’s History Month through a community celebration at the Women’s Bean Project.

The speakers shared invaluable insights into the critical issues of domestic violence; and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives ignited impactful discussions that will continue to resonate for all who attended. Nearly 300 RSVPs were received and all tables were filled with attendees, interested in the topics.

Guest speakers and moderators included: Shannon Alcott, Co-Chair, Denver American Indian Commission; Kirsten C. Decker, Chair, Denver Women’s Commission; Cecelia Duncan Bull Bear, Denver American Indian Commission; Council Member Flor Alvidrez; Tamra Ryan, CEO, Women’s Bean Project; Victoria Aguilar, Deputy Director, Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships; and Mayor Mike Johnston, City and County of Denver.

To learn more about the Denver American Indian Commission and the Denver Women’s Commission or to get involved, contact Kirsten C. Decker (kcdeckr@gmail.com) and Shannon Alcott (salcotteagle@gmail.com).

Photo Credit: Elaine Limmer

After five years of visioning, planning, and community dreaming, the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network (CACEN) proudly unveiled the Social Fabric Hub—South Denver’s first and only Asian American cultural and community center—in March 2025.

Located at 67 Inverness Drive East, Unit C, in Englewood, the Social Fabric Hub is more than just a space— it’s a vibrant destination where connection, creativity, and culture thrive. The center features coworking spaces, conference rooms, a podcast studio, a kids’ play area, exercise power bikes, a video game and TV lounge,

Social Fabric Hub: South Denver’s First Asian American Center Launches with Wellness and Community Events

Asian American Cultural and Community Center opens in March 2025

a community library, and a flexible event venue—all dedicated to celebrating and centering Asian American experiences.

In just its first month, Social Fabric hosted six exciting events, drawing over 400 attendees who came to explore the space, enjoy programming, and connect with others. Community members also stopped by to co-work, pedal on the power bikes, or simply catch up with friends.

While full renovations are still in progress due to funding limitations, a grand opening celebration is slated for late summer 2025— but that hasn’t slowed

down the momentum.

The April event calendar is packed with opportunities to engage: Board Game Day – April 12; Storytime & Kids Activities – April 18; Family Egg Hunt – April 19; Mile High Asian Food Week Kickoff Lunch – April 25; Sound Bath with Christina Ifurung of Kapwa Healing – April 27 (back by popular demand)

Jadyn Nguyen, Community Hub Manager, shared: “Our goal at Social Fabric is to spark serendipitous connections—a space where community members can gather, build relationships, and uplift each other. We’re always open to ideas for new partnerships and programs!”

Visiting Social Fabric is free, but those looking to get more involved can sign up for a monthly membership with special perks.

Members enjoy exclusive monthly lunches, discounts on events and space rentals, access to check out library books, product giveaways, free coffee and tea, and 10% off at local AANHPI-owned businesses. A founding membership is available for $300 per year (or $25/ month).

To learn more about Social Fabric Hub and CACEN, visit coloradoasian.org. Stay up to date on events, by following @coloradoasian or @socialfabrichub.