Asian Fusion Magazine by Ricky Lin

2010 Fall

Follow the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck through New York City! Now is your chance to try the incredible flavors of Malaysia. For six weeks, the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck will be giving away free samples in neighborhoods throughout the city to celebrate Malaysian food, restaurants and chefs. Look for the Food Truck in your area and discover the enticing tastes of Malaysia. To find the weekly schedule, visit us at MalaysiaKitchenNYC.com or @MalaysiaKitchn.

2 ASIAN FUSION

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2010 Fall

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CONTENTS A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall! As this summer’s hot weather becomes a distant memory, join Asian Fusion as we welcome Fall with our unique look at fashion, culture, food, travel, design, and more. First, spend some time getting to know our beautiful cover model, Melanie Kannokada. Also a Miss India America, you’ll find that Ms. Kannokada is both smart and sexy. Then we get up-close and personal with Malaysian supermodel Ling Tan. Join Christopher Ong as he shares his expertise on beautiful living in his new television magazine program, Metrostyle. Come with us as we spend some time one-on-one with Niki Cheng, co-founder and design guru of BoConcept. Celebrate with us as we bring you exciting photos and information from this year’s 30th annual Korean Parade in Manhattan. Did you miss this year’s American fashion awards? We’ll tell who won and how Asian-American designers are having their impact on the world of fashion. Get ready to add some sparkle to your wardrobe as we hear from jewelry designer Katty Lau. Hungry? Experience the beauty and wonder of dining out at Mulan Restaurant and Mudan. What were you doing on Labor Day? We’ll show you why the best place to be was the Asian Feastival in Flushing. And finally, don’t miss our sneak peek at our upcoming first annual Restaurant issue. All of us here at Asian Fusion enjoy experiencing some of the best Asian and Asian-friendly restaurants in the city...and we want to make sure that our readers - you - know exactly where to go! So, get out and enjoy the cooler weather, and be sure to bring Asian Fusion with you! Ching Yu Lin Editor-in-Chief

Actress, television host, model, and Miss India America, Melanie Kannokada didn’t start out on the path to stardom.

141 W 28th Street New York N.Y. 10001 T (212) 683-1881 (212) 947-3911 F (212) 683-1811 advertise@asianfusion-mag.com www.asianfusion-mag.com 14 ASIAN FUSION

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ching Yu Lin

EDITORIAL EDITORS Sophia Hsu Louis Balletta Shu Min Xu Loren Chaffee Dave Flores Copy Editor Joe Meny PHOTOGRAPHERS Jason Jaskot David Diaz Steven Speliotis Denis Jao

ADVERTISING

Account Executive Joe Meny Marketing Managers Louis Balletta Chris Lin Advertising Manager Anna Chen

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jing Lu Eric Lin Jing Lin

WEB DESIGNER Danny Ho

PRODUCTION

Sheng Tian Huang

I.T.CONSULTANT Edward Chwo

DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Jie Hu Sammy Young

2010 Fall

CONTENTS

FALL 2010 FEATURES 16 | Melanie Kannokada

22 | Malaysian in Manhattan 24 | BoConcept with Niki & Shaokao 62

2010 Fall

COVER STORY

Actress, television host, model, and Miss India America, Melanie Kannokada didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start out on the path to stardom.

Melanie Kannokada Talent + Beauty

Photographer: Jason Jaskot Fashion Editor: Renessta Olds Fashion Assistant: KaiLee Parker Hair stylist : Ken See Make Up Artist : Aurelia Dagorn 18 ASIAN FUSION

Dress: Ali Ro Boots: XOXO Necklace & Ring: Katty Lau @ Magnolia Fine Jewelry

Yellow diamond necklace - 270 diamonds- 32.52ct (On cover: yellow diamond ring- 153 diamond-3.88ct)

By: Dave Flores

2010 Fall

COVER STORY

ctress, television host, model, and Miss India America, Melanie Kannokada didn’t initially start out on the path to stardom. This self-described cience nerd was studying mechanical engineering at Stanford University before she decided to make the leap into the entertainment world. During her final year in college, she was encouraged to enter the Miss India America Pageant. With little knowledge about the world of beauty pageants, she was completely humbled when she walked away with the crown. Soon after, a local television network invited her to audition as a host of their new programming. She landed the position and

Sony Pictures TV's new international pop culture show, “In The Qube”, alongside Maria Sansone, and airing in over 60 countries. Melanie has recently finished shooting the feature comedy “Love, Lies and Seeta”, where she plays the title character, Seeta, and is set to act in the feature thriller “Open” this fall. She is also currently under strong consideration for a high profile studio film, the details of which are top secret! This year Melanie was named to Anokhi Magazine's Sexy and Successful List. In her free time, Melanie is involved in building “Hospital for Hope,” a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the construction of a hospital in an extremely under-served area of

“The rest is history. In just a

short amount of time, Melanie has modeled in over twenty advertising campaigns for brands....” fell in love with her new on-air role. From there she began hosting two television shows, in addition to school and work. All the while taking on other on-screen and modeling opportunities as they came in. Her work soon caught the eye of top talent agents in both New York and Los Angeles. The rest is history. In just a short amount of time, Melanie has modeled in over twenty advertising campaigns for brands that include Glamour Magazine, P&G, Herbal Essence, Rockport, Verizon, and Nescafe; in addition to such top designers as Payal Singhal and Malani Ramani. She can currently be seen starring in the indie feature film “Bicycle Bride”, and as a host of 20 ASIAN FUSION

rural Jharkhand, India. She can also be seen jamming out a tune on the piano, practicing Shotokan Karate (she holds a 2nd degree black belt!), training at the infamous Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, or performing modern Indian dance with the acclaimed Sa Dance Company <http://www.sadancecompany.com/> in New York. She’s quite a busy young lady! Melanie grew up in Buffalo Grove, Illinois before packing up for the West Coast as an undergraduate at Stanford University. There she received a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Melanie currently resides in Manhattan.

Dress: Jia Li Designs Shoes: NINA Fur: Patmos Jewelry: Katty Lau @ Magnolia Fine Jewelry

Yellow diamond earrings: 432 diamonds- 3.68ct

2010 Fall

Dress: Elene by Elene Cassis Tights: HUE Shoes: Guisseppi Zanotti Jewelry: Katty Lau @Magnolia Fine Jewelry 24k yellow gold necklace - 20.5 grams 24k yellow gold earrings - 19.4 grams

22 ASIAN FUSION

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE As entrepreneur, and owner of BoConcept New York, the Malaysian born Niki Cheng heads 8 stores in the greater New York and New Jersey area. BoConcept is a chic and progressive furniture company originating in Denmark. Niki a business woman with a background in design has taken one store, starting at her Madison Avenue location in 2003, and has parlayed that into many, all over the area ( Chelsea, Carle Place, UES, Soho, Dumbo, and Paramus and Edgewater, New Jersey.) With the help of her husband Shaokao Cheng who has a background in business, they invested almost all of their savings to start the this successful venture. They both fit the bill of their chic store, and posses all of that jazz that Bo Concept offers to its loyal customers.

Jessica Tan Gudnason, an ex-fashion model, now a photographer is an artist whose work explores Eastern & Western Opera. Her first book “Chinese Opera” (2001) an introduction essay by Gong Li, the actress.An unprecedented album of portraits taken backstage in the moments just before and after a performance, 1st editions “Opera Portraits” a limited edition of 1,000 copies are also selected to appear for this year American Photography 26. Her work offers stunning and intimate glimpses of the world’s greatest opera singers Domingo,Fleming, Florez and Cura on the threshold between inhabiting their characters and returning to their daily selves. Live in Manhattan and Paris and at the start of working on her third book. Purchase of Opera Portraits book ( www north8editions.com) (info@north8editions.com) (www. jessicatangudnason.com

On Location at BoConcept / Madison Ave.

Malaysian in Marcus Teo is the founder and Creative Director of Teo Creative Inc. For 20 years, he has dedicated his creative vision to the worlds of fashion, the arts, media and design. An early stint at Mirabella magazine captured his attention while studying film at New York University. Dropping out after a brief acting stint, he found his home in the world of fashion. Later, as editor and fashion director of W Magazine’s Men’s Portfolio, Teo had an opportunity to exercise his creative vision while learning and cultivating relationships with fashion’s creative forces. As a freelance stylist and creative director, Teo has worked with an innovative roster,

uncluding Calvin Klein, Brooks Brothers, Hickey Freeman, Bloomingdales, Macys, Kenneth Cole, Coach, and Nautica. He continues his editorial and fashion work as a Contributing editor to W magazine, L’Officiel, GQ International, Men’s Vogue, BlackBook, Esquire, L’uomo Vogue and Arena. “Having grown up in 3 continents, my creative, work and domestic life has always drawn from the international experience. It extends to everything from food to my style and my home; which is an eclectic mix of the colonial architecture of Malaysia and the Le Corbusier shrine of my cousin’s home in London.”

Esther Decew has a passion for pure Malaysian dance.“Dance is really meaningful for me. I put my entire heart and soul into dance . I never give up and I will never stop learning to make sure that I grow every day. I traveled very far from my home town to learn something that I couldn’t learn there. I never dreamed I’d be in New York City...but I'm here. I try my best every day to change whatever I can to make life better for my family.”

Yeohlee Teng moved to New York from Malaysia to study fashion at the Parsons School of Design. She has worked primarily in New York City and has established her own house, YEOHLEE inc in 1981. Yeohlee believes that “clothes have magic.” She dresses the “urban nomad”, a term she coined for her Fall 1997 collection, defining a lifestyle that requires clothing that works on a variety of practical and psychological levels. She is a master of design management and believes in the efficiency of yearround, seasonless clothes. Yeohlee’s designs have earned a permanent place in the Costume Collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the late Richard Martin, then Chief Curator, called her “one of the most ingenious makers of clothing today.”

Christopher Ong’s design philosophy has always embraced contemporary living with the graciousness of tradition, tempered by his singular East-meets-West experience. The Ong style can simply be defined as: H a r m o n y, S i m p l i c i t y and E l e g a n c e. From Malaysia to Manhattan, Christopher Ong’s journey has brought him into contact with a rich diversity of cultures and sensibilities. The result is Metro-Style, a customizedfusion of modern and traditional multicultural motifs that perfectly complement the modern urban habitat. Ong earned his Business & Economic degree from York

University, Toronto. He pursued his Interior Design education at FIT, New York City. He further polished his design skills at Island Outpost/ Island Trading; and has been involved in lifestyle product designs to interior design of various critically acclaimed, celebrityfrequented boutique hotels in South Beach, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. He launched his design firm in 2000, and since has designed interiors for clients from the East coast to the West and across the pond, country homes and townhouses, apartments, art galleries, and a converted barn in England.

Manhattan

Malaysian-born Kevin Woon moved to New York City at the age of eighteen and soon started supplementing his college tuition with a part-time job as a hairstylists' assistant in Chinatown. After obtaining his license, Kevin trained at Oribe Salon and began assisting Oribe on international fashion shows like Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino and Versace, to name but a few. Now proprietor of his own salon in downtown Manhattan, Woon collaborates with leading fashion photographers (including Christian Witkin, Dewey Nicks and Sara Silver) and his hairstyles can be found in the world's most highly regarded fashion magazines from Allure to i-D magazine.

ZANG TOI was born and raised in a small village in Kelantan, the youngest of seven children. Zang arrived in New York and at the age of 20, began his studies at Parsons School of Design. In August 1989, he opened his atelier and soon after, Zang was awarded the 1990 Mouton Cadet Young Designer of the Year award. In an April 1991 Newsday article, Frank de Car enthusiastically noted of the Malaysian-born designer and his success, “If anyone is THE NEXT BIG THING, it’s him.” Since then, Zang has captured the attention of the world’s fashion elite and continues to be characterized by his precocious aptitude and astute business acumen. After making his designs available in Malaysia in 1996,

Zang further expanded his operation with a Zang Toi Café in the fashionable Pavilion Shopping Center in downtown Kuala Lumpur, and with the Zang Toi shoe licensing in Malaysia. Zang continues to have a strong presence in the international fashion scene. Having dressed the likes of Sharon Stone, Gong Li, Eva Longoria, Fergie of the Black Eye Peas, Heather Graham, Devon Aoki, Farrah Fawcett, Patti LaBelle, Ivana Trump and Melinda Gates, Zang Toi is now considered an established name in the world of Haute Fashion. His timeless and uncompromising designs pamper women with elegance and glamour - inspired by his love of travel and fine living.

SPECIAL ISSUE

BoConcept

with

Niki & Shaokao

s entrepreneur, and owner of BoConcept New York, the Malaysian-born Niki Cheng heads 8 stores in the greater New York and New Jersey area. BoConcept is a chic and progressive furniture company originating in Denmark. Niki is a business woman with a background in design who, in 2003, took one store (located on Madison Avenue) and has now parlayed that into many locations all over the area; including Chelsea, Carle Place, UES, Soho, Dumbo, and Paramus and Edgewater, New Jersey. With the help of her husband Shaokao Cheng - who has a background in business - they invested almost all of their savings to start this successful venture. They both fit the bill of their chic store, and possess all the jazz that Bo Concept offers to its loyal customers. Bo Concept’s furniture suits New York in style and functionality. “It’s the ideal furniture for New Yorkers who are looking for modular & affordable design pieces”, Niki says. Walking around the store is a fantastic, unrestricted experience, with beautiful pieces and great new designs catching your eye at every turn- sofas, tables, chairs, shelving units, and home accessories- all very practi26 ASIAN FUSION

by Louis Balletta

cal, sleek and visually stunning. As an added plus, most items can be altered for customers to fit their specifications in the areas of size, colors, and price. The typical customer of Boconcept is usually around 25 to 40 years old, fresh and ready to adorn their newly bought apartment in New York. Niki describes her furniture as “modern, practical and affordable.” She wishes to attract more interior designers to the store, but warns she can’t give the steep discount they desire because she needs to keep the prices of her items affordable for everyone. A typical day for Niki, who has two children, Cienna and Edin, starts at home where she prepares her daughter for school until the nanny takes her. She takes care of her little boy until the nanny comes back from the school. This is all before she heads in for work at noon, usually to Bo Concept where she takes care of the sales of the stores in the area. “Besides that, I manage big development projects with model homes or private customers,” this extremely busy store owner told me. I’ve seen Niki multiple times at the store and she’s always engaged with something or someone. And always wearing that wonderful smile. Whether it’s giving assis-

tance and direction to employees, or helping customers, she’s always present and conscious of others around her. At a recent event she held at the store, The New 2011 Collection and Housewarming party for Bo Concept, the line to get to Niki was three deep, with everyone eager to spend some time chatting with her. It was a great event where everyone wore a smile and carried good intentions for the night and also had a little fun. Guests brought donations of designer clothing and housewares for Housing Works, all in the spirit of community. There was also $5,000 worth of prizes being raffled off which added even more excitement to the event. Niki has helped a number of charitable organizations including Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, VH1 Save the Music, Ali Forney Center, the Rainforest Foundation, U.S., the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, and the Asia Society. The evening also featured

the debut of BoConcept New York’s commercial featuring....who else?... Niki! By the time I got to her amid the sea of people, I joked with her that she now has “on- camera” experience to add to her resume, along everything else. But for the future, Niki plans on doing more traveling since the kids will soon be older. She’s looking to expand and talks of eventually opening a hotel - which I think would be one very grand and sleek lodging experience considering what Bo Concept is all about. Niki told me that if she wasn’t in the industry she is in now, she would be in the food or fashion industry-which made lots of sense considering she has a very artistic and creative entrepeneur . But for now, she will continue to cater to her stylish New York crowd who continue to enjoy her good taste. As for my review of the store, I give it two thumbs up - Niki and Shaokao have done a wonderful job with BoConcept. 2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

The Joy of Beautiful

Living

by Paul Bilson

“I have a passion for all things beautiful like the little moments that make life so joyful!”

- Christopher Ong

e is full of ideas, energy, and a self-proclaimed “joie de vivre.” His laughter is contagious and fills up a room. He is Lifestyle Interior Designer Christopher Ong, and when things don’t work out the way he would like, you will hear him say “c’est la vie! NEXT!” His drive to succeed and give his all is unstoppable. Born and raised in Malaysia, Christopher Ong left home in his late teens and moved to Toronto, Canada to attend school. He earned his Economics and Business Administration degree and then decided to pack his bags again and traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia. Ten months later he landed in New York City and began working in the fashion industry while continuing his education at the Fashion Institute of Technology for interior design. Christopher honed his skills working 10 years for Mary

28 ASIAN FUSION

Vinson and Chris Blackwell at Island Trading/ Island Outpost/ Royal Hut. He was involved with a wide variety of design projects ranging from residential, affluent boutique hotels & resorts to fashion apparel and home lifestyle product design. In 2000, Ong started his own design company, Christopher Ong Lifestyle Atelier. His style has always embraced the contemporary with the graciousness of traditional, tempered by his singular Eastmeets-West experience. Ong's journey has brought him into contact with a rich diversity of cultures and sensibilities resulting in an effortless Metro-Style: a customized fusion of modern and traditional multicultural motifs that perfectly complement the contemporary urban landscape. In addition to his Interior Lifestyle Design Atelier, Christopher is now writing, coproducing and hosting “Beautiful Living”, a lifestyle TV magazine program. He and co-producer Steven Speliotis are creating short episodes for Manhattan Neighborhood Network focusing on Ong’s inspirations and aesthetics. The first episode, "Bringing the Outdoors In," made its’ debut in August, 2010. The second episode, “Tea Time @ Bernardaud," will air later this month (see: www.mnn.org or www.youtube.com/ beautifulliving2020). I asked Christopher

about the future and his current projects: What is the theme of your next show? “Steven and I will be filming a talented French floral designer in Manhattan about flowers for everyday living. It's going to have plenty of color, texture, style, composition and fun of course!” You also had a line of wonderfully perfumed candles, decorative pillows and table linens at the now-defunct Takashimaya. Where can people find your products now? “I haven’t worked out retail outlets in Manhattan yet but my candles are available through my website: www.christopherong. com.” Since as the expert on "Beautiful Living," would you please share with our readers one of your relaxation tips? “Love to! Create your own private oasis at home. The recipe is:

· draw a warm bubble bath with your favorite bath oil and salt · light a Christopher Ong perfumed candle, of course (he smiles)! · pour yourself a glass of wine · sprinkle some fresh flower petals in your bath · put on your favorite music Breathe deeply and enjoy the moment AFTER ALL, TOMORROW IS A NEW DAY!” www.christopherong.com www.2020chrisong.blogspot.com www.speliotis.com

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE APPLAUSE for

by Louis Balletta

ZANG TOI

he Zang Toi show at “The Studio” was a very big hit with everyone at the newly set location at Lincoln Center. From the beginning, Zang brought the Lone Star state to the Empire State, with the outfits, look, and music reflecting the Oscar winning and epic film “The Giant”, starring Liz Taylor and James Dean. The Kelantan-born designer made quite a hit showcasing rugged cowboy looks combined with glamorous dresses and gowns in his 2011 Spring lineup. The Texas debutantes sported big hair and up-do’s, and as the cowboy was strutting his stuff with western wear on the runway- lots of big hair and cowboy hats were everywhere. The women had thick brows and distinct full lips reminiscent of Liz Taylor. Toi requested super big hair for the models which matched the grandiosity of everything that evening in mid-September. Some big names who attended included Kelly Choi from Top Chef, Irina Dvorovenko and Maxim Dvorovenko from the American Ballet Theatre, Shantel VanSanten model and actress from One Tree Hill, and Romona Singer and LuAnne de Lesseps from the tv hit Real Housewives of New York City.

30 ASIAN FUSION

Zang’s over-the-top collection excited the crowd from the start as the clothes met the atmosphere’s drama in classic western style. Some of the biggest gasps from the crowd came when the magnificent colors were beginning to trickle into the collection. Beautiful floral prints and the big puffy dresses looked to be right out of the 60’s. The clothes ranged from elegant to opulent. It was clear his timeless designs cater to women with elegance and glamour, but have that ‘umph factor’ as well. His designs are always chic and glamorous, highlighting the female form, and packing a youthful punch. Zang’s career started here in New York at the Parsons School of Design before winning the the 1990 Mouton Cadet Young Designer of the Year award which recognizes the top, young U.S. designer of the year. Since then, Zang has captured the attention of the fashion world and is now taking it by storm. He has dressed some of the world’s most well known women, including Sharon Stone, Gong Li, Eva Longoria, Fergie of the Black Eye Peas, Heather Graham, Devon Aoki, Farrah Fawcett, Patti LaBelle, Ivana Trump and Melinda Gates. Coming full circle, from Malaysia to New York, where he started his studies, its the American dream for Toi.

Where/New York City

www.judymaechao.com

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

Ling Tan Super model

his past September’s MercedesBenz Fashion Week at Linclon Center was a familiar episode for Ling Tan, the first super model of Southeast Asia. The turf was different, this time on the newly- constructed grounds of Lincoln Center, but just another walk in the not-so-Bryant Park for Ms. Tan. She was controlling the runway in her usual powerful, yet beautiful, grace for the Zang Toi event. Ling Tan is no stranger to the runway, having done hundreds of shows in New York, Milan, Paris, and London. I was fortunate to be in attendance that night and got to experience and witness this runway favorite upclose and personal. Meeting her backstage was both fantastic and pleasing because of her warm and down- to-earth demeanor. Although I could tell she was exhausted, she was quite accommodating with friendly conversation. There wasn’t a trace of ‘diva attitude’ in her bones. This was refreshing for a scene that can sometimes bring with it pockets of arrogance. Ms. Tan possesses none of that. Other than the compelling 32 ASIAN FUSION

By Joe Meny

by Louis Balletta

sophisticated swagger she possesses and rocks with on the runway, her warm and gentle persona illuminates a room in a much more temperate and intimate way. It’s hard to find any celebrated designer who has not gotten her to walk the runway, done a fashion campaign or endorsed some of their labels or products. Armani, Balenciaga, Chanel, Chloe, Dior, Escada, Ferragamo, Fendi, Gucci, Gaultier, Valentino and Yves Saint Laurent are just some of the gigantic companies she has worked with. A list of celebrated shutterbugs who have captured the renowned Ms. Tan have included Steven Meisel, Annie Leibovitz, Peter Lindbergh, Mario Testino, Ellen Von Unwerth, Gilles Bensimon, Patrick Demarchelier, Jean Baptiste-Mondino, Michelangelo di Battista, Matthew Rolston and the fabulous Richard Avedon. Ms. Tan had gone to Kuala Lumpur in July with Zang Toi, fashion guru to the stars, for MODA - Malaysian Official Designers Association, a non-profitable organization. It was a celebration of MODA’s 20th Anniversary, a gala held on July 20. Ms. Tan told me the association had invited both her and Zang Toi, who flew with her to the big event from New York. After the event, they went to Penang with Zang Toi and his family for holiday. They stayed at the Eastern Hotel and the Oriental Hotel, which Ling excitedly described as “the best hotel in Penang.” It’s a fulfilling, exciting, and fun-filled life indeed; but is it enough for Ms. Tan? For now, yes. She does look forward to settling down and starting a family later on, but now she’s just enjoying her career and exploring the world. “I love children, but I’m still busy with my travels,” said Ms. Tan. So for now she remains at the top of her game doing what she does best...making us all “ooh and ah.” .

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

Coming to

by RF|Binder

The KITCHEN

et ready for a taste of Malaysian street food. For six weeks, from October 11 through November 19, a mobile food truck serving up traditional Malaysian street fare by some of the city’s best Malaysian restaurants, will hit the streets of New York. The Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck’s stops will include the busiest city streets and squares, from Madison Square Park and Bryant Park to Union Square and Columbus Circle, as well as the foodcentric Elmhurst and Flushing neighborhoods of Queens. Restaurants like Fatty Crab, Laut, Nyonya, Penang and Sedap Taste Good, among others, will hand out free samples of deliciously spicy Malaysian foods made to be eaten on the go (finger licking allowed). The official kick-off of the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck is slated for October 12 in Bryant Park, featuring chefs Zak Pelaccio of Fatty Crab and Hasni Ghazali of Bentara in New Haven, CT. The truck will be parked on the north side of 40th street between 5th 34 ASIAN FUSION

Avenue and Avenue of the Americas, just outside the 40th street main entrance into Bryant Park. Sampling will begin at 7am with traditional Malaysian breakfast dishes, including Malaysia’s iconic “net bread,” Roti Jala, made on site by chef Ghazali in the authentic Malaysian style: slowly pouring the batter in a hot skillet to form a net-like crepe. Lunch samplings of Kari Ayam (curry chicken) and Nasi Lemak provided by Fatty Crab will begin at 11:00 am. Fatty Crab will also be handing out food samples the day before and the day after the official launch. The Manhattan run of the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck will come to an end with a splash on November 5 and 6, when the truck will be stationed outside of Vanderbilt Hall for a big Malaysian food and culture celebration in Grand Central Terminal. Chef Hasni Ghazali will be sampling shrimp fritters and Mee Goreng Mamak from the truck on those two days, while the hall will be bustling with cultural shows and events and, of course,

New York City

MALAYSIA FOOD TRUCK Malaysian food by dozens of restaurants. The truck then moves to Queens for another two-week run. Here, it will be stationed in two of the richest and most diverse food neighborhoods in the city, Elmhurst and Flushing, and will feature samplings from some of the local Malaysian restaurants, including Sedap Taste Good and Restorant Malaysia. A calendar of Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck sampling locations, dates, restaurants and dishes will be posted on the Malaysia Kitchen for the World web site (www. malaysiakitchennyc.com) on October 11th, so patrons can follow the truck’s daily progress. Updates will also be available via Twitter by following @malaysiakitchn. The Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck is a project of Malaysia Kitchen for the World, a campaign launched this March by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) with the mission to increase understanding of Malaysia’s cuisine and rich culinary heritage among

diners, chefs and restaurateurs. The year-long campaign relies on an exciting, multi-tiered program of epicurean and cultural events to boost awareness of and interest in Malaysian cuisine, Malaysian foods products and restaurants in New York City and the Tri-State area. Malaysian food is a fascinating blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions sprinkled with Southeast Asian, Portuguese and Middle Eastern influences. Its richness and diversity are virtually unparalleled and stem from the country’s captivating history as a major crossroad in the ancient eastern spice trade route. New Yorkers will get a unique opportunity to experience this incredible fusion of flavors as the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck makes its way through some of the city’s biggest neighborhoods and hot spots. Bring an open mind to new flavors— and a good appetite. For more information on the Malaysia Kitchen Food Truck, visit: malaysiakitchennyc.com.

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

Malaysian K

36 ASIAN FUSION

Kitchen

2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

Kari Ayam

Mee Goreng

Bentara Roti Jala 38 ASIAN FUSION

Nasi Lemak

A taste of Malaysia 2010 Fall

SPECIAL ISSUE

A Delicious Attack by Malaysian Cuisine

eptember 7, 2010, New York – New Yorkers were spoiled once again. At the Chelsea Triangle of the Meatpacking District on 14th St. and 9th Ave. there was the hosting of a Malaysian Night Market. Malaysian Kitchen for the World, a global initiative by the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) aimed to build awareness about Malaysian food and culture in the tri-state area, in conjunction with LUCKYRICE, an integrated lifestyle brand and consumer guide for Asian cuisine, organized this night market showcasing the culinary talents of some of the city’s most popular Southeast Asian restaurants. It was a perfect day for the event. Ramadan had come to an end and Fashion Week had the city pulsating. Surrounded by lanterns intended to give the authentic feel of a market in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, New Yorkers and tourists packed onto the triangular median with mouths agape because of all the available delicious cuisine. The crowd was so densely populated that maneuvering about with ease was impossible. There were more than several “I’m sorry’s” and “Excuse me’s” being said to one another as people with scrunched shoulders tried to eat their meals while walking, hoping not to spill their food on anyone. It wasn’t the ruining of other people’s clothing that seemed to cause concern it was potentially losing their meal. Each restaurant served hungry mouths in tents lined along the median’s perimeter. The participating restaurants: Todd English and Ian Chalermkittichais’ unnamed restaurant, Nyonya, Fatty Crab, Laut, Betel, New Malaysia, Spice Market and Cafe Asean. Meals were priced between $4 and $8. The cuisine options could turn one into a food fiend. Betel was serving shrimp and pickled Mango Popiah for $5. For an extra $2, you could also get some Yazo Lemonade. Or

40 ASIAN FUSION

By David Ross

you could go over to Laut’s tent and get Beef Rendang for $7. The world was yours. The tent receiving the most attention was that of a still unnamed Asian American BBQ restaurant consulted by two endlessly talented celebrity chefs: the dashing Todd English and the innovative Ian Chalermkittichais. The line was so long it resembled a line at the Motor Vehicle Administration. They were serving Malaysian Steak Satay with grilled bread and peanut sauce, priced at $5. Neither Todd English nor Ian Chalermkittichais were actually at the night market but their presence was strongly felt. At the base of the median’s triangle was a stage surrounded by security in slacks and white dress shirts. Soon a Malaysian dance group occupied the stage and performed to melodious and percussive Malaysian music. Wine and dining consultant, Michael Green was Master of Ceremony. Flower petals were thrown and tambourines were beaten in front of a crowd of flashing cameras. The dancing commanded everyone’s attention. It didn’t matter if someone had a plate of Assam Laksa in their hands or a stroller bearing a restless toddler, they still watched the performances mesmerizingly. There are more events lined up throughout the year highlighting the endearing cuisine of Malaysia. There will be a traveling food truck hitting different bureaus offering food from local Malaysian restaurants. Malaysian Kitchen for the World certainly has the right ingredients to spreading awareness. “Many don’t even know where Malaysia is,” said event staffer, Sherri Poall. The campaign intends to put an end to that. For more information on the upcoming events by Malaysian Kitchen for the World in the tri-state area, visit www.malaysiankitchennyc.com

2010 Fall

42 ASIAN FUSION

BoConcept

2010 Fall

Queens Crossing Mulan& Mudan Restaurant

Evolution wireless

Manhattan & Queens & Brooklyn BUSINESS DIRECTORY: HELLS KITCHEN Restaurant Ace Luck Thai 530 Ninth Ave. 212.594.7083 Aura Thai 462 Ninth Ave. 212.971.8530

44 ASIAN FUSION

Breeze 661 9th Avenue New York, NY 10036 212-262-7777 Chanpen 761 9th Ave.New York,N.Y.10019 212.586.6808 Heng Heng 752 Tenth Ave. 212.765.7800

Q2 Thai 788 Ninth ave., 212.262.2236 Radiance 158 W. 55th St. New York, NY 10019 212-217-0442 Thai Select 212.695.9920 Yum Yum Bangkok 650 9th Avenue New York, NY 10036 212-262-7244

Yum Yum Bangkok 650 9th Ave. 45th & 46th St. 212.262.7244 Yum Yum 3 658 9th Ave. & 46th St. 212.956.0639 Yum Yum Too 662 9th Ave. & 46th St 212.247.2228

CHELSEA Restaurant

Asian Bistro 70 7th Avenue New York, NY 10011 212-255-7385 Jasmine Asian Fusion 88 7th Avenue New York, NY 10011 212-929-1778 Monster Sushi 158 W. 23rd St. New York, NY 10011 212-620-9131 Thai Chai Yo 233 Ninth Ave. 212.488.2170

Spa

Touch of East 11 W. 20th St. New York, NY 10011 212-366-6333

Store

CQ Home Décor 37 W. 20th St. New York, NY 10011 212-366-1888 Establishment 30 Gansevoort St. New York, NY 10014 212-242-6565

SOHO Spa

Golden Yan Foot SPA Inc. 286 Broome St. New York, NY 10002 212-925-8515 La Peau 183 Lafayette St. New York,NY 10013 212.334.7071 / 7597

Store

Pearl River Mart 477 Broadway New York, NY 10013 212-431-4770

EAST VILLAGE Restaurant

Hirai Mong Fusion Restaurant 12 St. Mark’s Pl., New York, NY 10003 212-475-7101 Kurve_87 2nd Ave. New York, NY 10003 212-260-8018 Laut 15 E. 17th St. New York, NY 10003 212-206-8989

Spa

Element Beauty Lounge 48 3rd Avenue New York, NY 10003 212-387-0045

KOREANTOWN Restaurant

Haru Hana 28 W. 32nd St. New York, NY 10001 212-736-5393 Mad For Chicken 314 5th Ave. 2nd Fl. New York, NY 10001 212-221-2222 Shanghai Mong 30 W. 32nd St. New York, NY 10001 212-629-6450 Toon Thai Café 435 Park Avenue South New York, NY 10016 212-644-8989

Spa

Hair Party 76 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10016 212-213-0056

Travel

Malaysia Tourism 120 East 56th St. New York, NY 10022 212-754-1113

Stanford Hotel 43 W. 32nd St., New York, NY 10001 212-563-1500

Others

Chang Beer Mekhong 60 E. 42nd St. Suite 2134 New York, NY 10165 646-896-3805

CHINATOWN Restaurant

Bo Ky Restaurant 216 Grand St. New York, NY 10013 212-219-9228 Full House Cafe 97 Bowery, New York, NY 10002 212-925-8083 Hong Kong Station 45 Bayard St., New York, NY 10013 212-233-0288 45 Division St., New York, NY 10013 212-966-9682 Quickly Bubble Tea 237 B Grand St. NY 10013 212-431-0998 Red Egg 202 Centre St. New York, NY 10013 212-966-1123 Shanghai Café 100 Mott St. New York, NY 10013 212-966-3988 Vegetarian Dim Sum House 24 Pell St., New York, NY 10013 212-577-7176 ViVi Bubble Tea 49 Bayard St. New York, NY 10013 212-566-6833

Spa

Hair ToTo Group 189 Centre St. New York, NY 10013 212-431-1630 Heaven-E Beauty Spa, Inc. 126 Lafayette St., 2nd Fl. New York, NY 10013 212-966-4288

Jewerly

Cathay Jewelry Corporation 160 Canal St, New York, NY 10013 162 Canal St, New York, NY 10013 165 Canal St, New York, NY 10013 175 Canal St, New York, NY 10013 13 Chatham Square, New York, NY 10013 85 Mott Street, New York, NY 10013 (212) 941-8728 B.Tiff 244 Mulberry St. New York, NY 10012 212-695-1155

Store

May Wah Vegetarian Market 213 Hester St., New York, NY 10013 212-334-4428 Peony Red 217 Centre St. New York, NY 10013 212-655-5428 P&M Music, Inc. 2 Elizabeth St. New York, NY 10013 212-732-3828

FLUSHING Restaurant

Apollo Bakery 135-36 39th Avenue Flushing, NY 11354 718-961-0596 Corner 28 40-28 Main St. Flushing, NY 11354 718-886-6628 DELUGE 135-20 39th Ave. Flushing, NY 11354 718-670-7400 East Buffet &Restaurant 42-07 Main Street Flushing, NY 11355 718-358-9810 Ice Fire Land 135-11 40 Road Flushing, NY 11354 718-886-8600

Jade Asian Restaurant 138-28 39th Ave. Flushing, NY 11354 718-762-8821 Ku-Shiang Restaurant 135-38 39th Avenue Flushing, NY 11354 718-539-7520 La Mei Shabu Shabu 136-21 41st Ave. Flushing, NY 11355 718-888-1488 N&Y Seafood 135-25 40 Rd., Flushing, NY 11354 718-888-9755 Red Chopstick 136-17 41st Ave. Flushing, NY. 11355 718-661-6655 TenRen’s Tea 75 Mott St. New York, NY 10013 212-349-2286

Spa

Orient Retreat SPA 136-45 41st Ave. Flushing, NY 11355 718-888-0088 Skinlosophy 36-40 Main St., Ste. 503 Flushing, NY 718-961-0776

Store

Kimono Fusion 104-56 48th Ave. Corona, NY11368 646-226-2168 Cathay Jewelry Corporation 37-02 Main St, New York, NY 11354 718. 888-1464 Toy Qube (718) 939-8605 133-31 39th Ave, New York, NY Ucollections 135-20 39th Ave. Flushing, NY 11354 718-578-9018 Veggie Ma Ma 133-16 41st Rd., Flushing, NY 11355 718-888-1156

Travel

Joy World Travel 135-20 39th Ave.,Flushing,NY11354 NGE Travel 135-42 39th Ave., 2nd Fl. Flushing, NY 11354 718-939-5360 Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel 135-20 39th Ave. Flushing, NY 11354 718-460-6666 Shine Travel 133-31 39th Ave., Ste C13 Flushing, NY 718-358-7228

Others

Andrew M. Leong 136-20 38th Ave, Ste. 10C Flushing, 718-886-2211 Chih C. Chung D.D.S 135-27 38th Ave., Ste. 368 Flushing, NY 718-961-6668 Empress Dental 4211 Kissena Blvd., Ste.1D Flushing, NY 11355 718-353-5504 Flowers by Anna 646-284-2446 Skyview Parc 718-886-8899

JACKSON HEIGHTS Restaurant

Armondo’s Italian Restaurant 74-27 37th Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-429-8552 Chung Ki Wa 40-06 74th St.Elmhurst, NY 11373 718-478-0925 Elmhurst Famous Pizza-Jackson 7512 37th Rd, Jackson Heights, NY (718) 205-5000 8307 Broadway, Flushing, NY (718) 271-3000 Happy Kitchen 80-12 37th Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-803-1600

Himalayan Yak 72-20 Roosevelt Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 718-779-1119 Jardi Mediterranean Café 86-09 Northern Blvd. Jackson Hts, NY Limoncello 40-39b 82nd St. Elmhurst, NY 11373 718-205-2343 718-478-3660 Nusara Thai Kitchen 82-80 Broadway Elmhurst, NY 11373 718-898-7996 Rice Ave. 72-19 Roosevelt Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-803-9001 Sabay Thai 75-19 Broadway Elmhurst, NY 11373 718-424-9054 Thakali Kitchen 74-14 37th Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718.898.5088 Uncle Peter’s 83-15 Northern Blvd. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-651-8600

Store

Phoenix French Cleaners 76-03 37th Ave. Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-429-4070

Others

MPC Properties, LLC 82-11 37th Ave., Ste. 605 Jackson Hts, NY 11372 718-446-6787

OTHERS

Restaurant

Bar Bao 100 W. 82nd St. New York, NY 10019 212-501-0776 Laguardia Seafood Restaurant 43-02 Ditmars Blvd. Astoria, NY 11105 718-626-0880 MOCA 107-18 70th Road Forest Hills, NY 11375 718-268-3333 Q Wine Bar 108-25 Ascan Avenue 718.261.6599 Forest Hills, NY 11375 718-261-6599 Yakiniku Izakaya Riki 250 E. 52nd St. New York, NY 10022 212-826-4255

Spa

Eve’s Nail Salon 226 Church Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11218 718-972-8022

Travel

Asia Classic Tours 800-717-7752 Bann Thai 69-12 Austin St. Forest Hills, NY 11375 718-544-9999 EVA Airways Corporation 100 Town Sq. Place,Ste. 310 Jersey City, NJ 07310 201-626-4030 Pacific Holidays 800-355-8025

Others

Ana Tzarev Gallery 24 W. 57th St. New York, NY 10019 212-586-9800 Mohegan Sun Mohegansun.com/888 1877-999-9977 Sugar Palette Cake by Scott Wong 718.880.7527

2010 Fall

RESTAURANT LIFESTYLE

Upscale, modern and elegant

ulan Restaurant udan Banquet Hall

ulan is a name that carries multiple meanings.

It is the name of the magnolia flower in Chinese as well as a heroine who served in an all-male army in place of her old age father. The story of our heroine has captivated generations of Chinese poets, writers, artists, 46 ASIAN FUSION

and playwrights. It first appeared as a poem entitled The Song of Mulan, composed sometime between 420 and 589. When Mulan’s father received an order to join the imperial army, the family worried, for although once a great warrior, he was now too old and ill to fight. To refuse the Khan’s (ruler’s) order, however, would bring dishonor

by Sophia Hsu

and punishment upon the entire family. There was no question that Mulan’s father had to go, for his only son, who might have served as a substitute, was much too young. Mulan, though, thought of another way. To protect her father and her family, Mulan herself decided to join the army in his place. Disguised as a man, she distinguished herself in battle as a brave warrior and a clever strategist. In capturing the spirit of our heroine, the Mulan Restaurant in Queens Crossing embodies a perfect meld between Eastern and Western cultures. Mulan’s cuisine, disguised as art masterpieces almost too-good-to-be eaten, vividly reflects the splendor of the liuli crystals which surround the restaurant. Mulan restaurant is both upscale and modern, elegantly decorated to fit its surrounding atmosphere. The focal point of the dining floor is a square gazebo with water curtains.

The elevated seating and leathered-in booths are ingeniously complemented with traditional oriental liuli crystals and motifs. The see-through over hanging curtains provide a romantic and pleasant dining ambiance when warm lighting pours down upon the windows. Subtle shifts in lighting within the dining area create an air of sophistication.

Fusion Cuisine Fusion cuisine began in the 1970’s, commonly fused pairings European and Asian cuisine. Traditionally trained in Europe but equally well versed in Asian cooking. Over the ensuing decades “east meets west” eateries began emerging throughout the country therefore the concept quickly spread to other major European cities, along with the 2010 Fall

RESTAURANT American coasts. These cultures have wildly divergent culinary traditions and combining the centuries of cooking tradition of both continents can sometimes result in astonishing dishes.

JiangZhe Cuisine Shanghainese food is the representative cuisine of this tradition, which originated in the lower reaches of Yangtze River and the southeastern coastal areas of China. Due to the many rivers and lakes in this area, it produces rich harvests of shrimp, crabs, eels and many other seafood. The chief techniques of cooking lie in the methods used such as frying, quick-fry, stir-fry, braising, and steaming; thus rendering the dishes both salubrious and savory.

Cantonese Cuisine Cantonese cuisine comes from Guangdong Province in Southern China. Cantonese Cuisine takes fine and rare ingredients and cooks them with polished skills, yet in a dainty style. Cantonese cooking is known for its meticulous methods of preparation. Whether fried, roasted, stir fried, steamed or boiled, Cantonese Cuisine is known for the vessels used to contain the food and their exquisite nature.

The Mudan Banquet Hall

The Mudan Banquet Hall, also located in Queens Crossing, is an impressive venue that offers a unique combination of delicious cuisine, consummate service, and comprehensive event management catering to your every need. Whether your occasion is a business banquet, a corporate event, a fun-filled personal celebration, or a wedding, our creative team will tailor every aspect of your event to exceed both your imagination and expectations, promising a memorable experience. 136-17 39th Ave, 2nd Floor Flushing NY, 11354 718.88.MULAN service@mulan-restaurant.com Hours: 11:30am-11pm

48 ASIAN FUSION

2010 Fall

FOOD

ssara Wines

and the Pan Asian Palate

t the Asian American Restaurant and Food Fair, Paleewong Trading provided a number of beverages to accompany the Pan-Asian dishes. One vineyard, Issara of Sonoma County, California, offered wines to compliment the exotic spices and ingredients found in Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Singaporean, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean dishes, which was a great fit for the food fair. One could carry a glass throughout the event to pair it with their favorite chef’s specialties. “Issara” is a word meaning “freedom” in Thai, and as per the website, “. . . was chosen to represent the label’s willingness to explore outside formulaic standards while still priding itself on quality and value.” From Sonoma’s rugged geography, varied soils, and temperate climate, Issara offers a cabernet sauvignon, a chardonnay, a merlot, a cuvee white, and a cuvee red. Each with its own distinguishing notes, traditional food 50 ASIAN FUSION

By Loren Chaffee

and wine pairings do not necessarily apply. With bright cassis aromas, strong herbal and cocoa flavors, the cabernet sauvignon goes well with savory meats like a satay, tandoori, or even a simple grilled pork. Try Klong for a great satay or any of the great Indian restaurants along Curry Row for tandoori on 7th St both in the East Village. As with all of the best California chardonnays, Issara wines boast scents of tangy citrus with crisp flavors of green apple, Asian pear, and hints of buttery caramel. The creaminess of the chardonnay pairs well with crab, crispy duck (try it on a salad), fish cakes with peanut sauce, and most sushi rolls. Try the crispy duck sliders from Corner 28 Cafe in Flushing with this chardonnay or maybe the inhouse smoked salmon at Sato in Rego Park. The Issara merlot hints of toasted oak and plump, juicy black cherries. Being one of the lighter reds, it has a versatile pairing with everything from duck to laab to salmon teriyaki or even a masaman curry dishes. Try Pongsri anywhere in the city for a nice laab (chopped meat salad with chili and lime) or New Belachan in Brooklyn for a masaman curry. The cuvee red and white are the blended from a variety of grapes for a smooth texture and ultimate flavor. With hints of vanilla custard, green apple, and tropical fruit, pair the white cuvee with green curries, white meat, and fish dishes. The cuvee red with its medium body can be paired with a wide range of meat dishes like bulgogi or kalbi and red curries. For more information, check out http:// www.issarawines.com for more information and where to purchase.

2010 Fall

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FOOD

Taiwan Beer

and Autumn Crabs

hat do Taiwan and Manhattan both have in common? Both are islands, and both have Taiwan Beer available in bars around the island. Thanks to Paleewong Trading, New York now has access to one of Taiwan’s beer of choice. After spending summers in Taiwan, one gets nostalgic for the frosty taste of Taiwan Beer and seafood. With Fall rolling in, it is time for autumn crabs, and what better to go with those crabs than Taiwan beer! Taiwan Beer (yes, that is its official name) is a crisp, golden lager brewed since 1919 with barley malt, hops, and local ponlai rice. A slightly maltier version is the Gold Medal label. I remember having grilled squid by the seaside and enjoying a glass of Gold Medal Taiwan Beer. The malty sweetness of the

54 ASIAN FUSION

By Shu Min Xu beer complimenting the saltiness of the sea that you could taste in every bite. Crabs were once a poor man’s delicacy. Now, everyone can enjoy the flaky sweetness of crabs. Growing up in Virginia, I had the opportunity of going crabbing on the Chesapeake Bay at the end of summer. Then, every autumn there would be a crab festival to celebrate the eminent close of the crabbing season. Lemons, butter, and Old Bay seasoning would perfume the air. The crunching of shells, the cracking of claws, and all of the work that goes into enjoying crab in the fall is always more fun with friends. For some great crab, Clemente’s Maryland Crabhouse or East Harbor Seafood Palace in Brooklyn, Fatty Crab in the West Village, Joe’s Shanghai in Manhattan Chinatown, or Imperial Palace in Flushing. If you don’t feel like putting that much work into your food, Taiwan Beer goes well with a variety of typical Taiwanese street foods like anything on a stick, soup dumplings, or even fried stinky tofu. If you are ever in Taiwan, stop by the Taiwan Beer Festival held every summer, or try the Taiwan Beer Bar and Beer Garden brewpub which is open year round. For more information about where to find Taiwan Beer here in New York, checkout http://www.paleewongtrading.com.

2010 Fall

FOOD A Toast to Thailand

Singha Beer

he flavors of Thailand are distinct and vibrant. There is a special balance that the flavors must balance in order to be considered truly good Thai food. The saltiness of fish sauce, the sourness of lime, the sweetness of tamarind, the bitterness of lemongrass, and the spiciness of chili peppers all combine for an intense, yet balanced flavor. Taking all of these into consideration, Singha beer compliments all of these flavors. Singha Lager is a premium, full-bodied lager. A 100% barley malt beer with a distinctively rich taste and strong hop characters, the lager is available at most Thai establishments around New York. Less available is the Singha Light version. Still the same smooth and refreshing taste of the lager, but with fewer calories. Singha Beer has become synonymous with Thai establishments here in the United States. To understand how this came to be, we have to look at the history of the brewery and the family. The Boon Rawd Brewery was set up in 1933, the first of its kind in Thailand. Singha Beer became the first beer to be brewed by a Thai, and has since become Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage and a familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pride. The beer was introduced internationally in the 1970s. Now, Thailand is a main tourist destination which further promotes Singha Beer around the world. Here are some Thai food basics you can enjoy with Singha Beer: Sriracha: a type of Thai chili pepper, not the brand of hot sauce. Som Tam: a fresh salad made of green, unripe papaya, lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers, tomatoes, and usually crushed peanuts. Laab: a minced meat salad served at room 56 ASIAN FUSION

By Loren Chaffee

temperature flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, fresh onion, and cilantro. Tom Yum: a hot and sour broth soup that can be either seafood or chicken based. Green Curry: usually a fresh paste including lemongrass, green chilies, shallot, galangal or ginger, cilantro, basil, and cumin Red Curry: a fresh paste including shallots/ red onion, lemongrass, red chilies, garlic, galangal or ginger, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and shrimp paste Yellow Curry: usually a fresh paste including lemongrass, yellow chilies, garlic, galangal or ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and shrimp paste Masaman Curry: is an Indian-influenced curry which includes cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Pad See Ew: flat, wide rice noodles with mixed vegetables, egg, and a soy based sauce Pad Thai: medium width noodles with mixed vegetables, egg, crushed peanuts, and a flavorful Tamarind-based sauce For more information about distribution, global events, and alcohol content, check out http://www.singhabeer.com. For more information about Thai foods and the basics, checkout http://www.thaitable.com.

2010 Fall

Peking Roat Duck $1.00/piece Party Sushi Eat in - Carry Out Delivery & Catering

40-28 Main St. Flushing, NY 11354 Tel: (718) 886-6628 58 ASIAN FUSION

THAI

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FOOD

The Asian American Restaurant & Food Fair

ollowing the line around the building, I made my way into the Sheraton LaGuardia East in Flushing. I get upstairs to the ballroom to find the space packed with chefs, platters whizzing by, and booths that are ready for selling. I ask one of the hotel personnel what the line around the building is for, and he tells me that it is for the food fair. The first Asian American Restaurant and Food Fair seems to already have quite the following. An ice sculpture swan is carted in to sit atop the registration table and lit from below. The swan was sculpted by one of the chefs who organized the food fair. I learned that he will later be giving ice sculpting demonstrations during the course of the event. The food fair consists of two sessions. Each session provides a different group of attendees the opportunity to experience all of the signature dishes that the New York Asian restaurants have to offer. Tables are lined up both sides of the hallway, around the entire ballroom, and outside on the patio for the grilled foods. The rainbows of noodles provided by TMI Trading, the marinated meats fresh off the grill provided by Lee Kum Kee (USA), and the flurry of attendees trying to just get a taste of the chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful creations mark an extremely successful first food fair. San Soo Kap San of Flushing provided Korean bulgogi and jap chae while Lucky Plaza Restaurant of Chinatown provided more traditional Chinese fare. Kevin Wong, the executive chef 60 ASIAN FUSION

By Sophia Hsu at the Sheraton LaGuardia East, was kind enough to spend some time speaking about the association. His booth provided a taste of East meets West, including Teriyaki roasted filet mignon, roasted rack of lamb basted in sa cha sauce (a type of Chinese barbecue sauce), and plantain chips with a cilantro lime salsa were all up for tasting at his table. He hopes that having the Asian American Restaurant Association, which has been in operation for about three years, will bring the understanding of Asian foods to a new level here in New York. Fascinated by the live demonstration at one of the booths, Sato is firing up woodchips and herbs in a pot. On a long plank towards the edge of the table, there are three wine glasses turned upside down trapping smoke and salmon together. I watch as one assistant lifts a glass, has the sampler waft the herbed smoke to his nose, places a dollop of sour cream on the fish, and has the sampler immediately savor the fish after the noseful of smoke. There are quizzical looks around the table, but those who are in the know understand that your sense of smell is 50% of taste, so the smoked salmon was meant to be an entire experience for the senses. The event was not just a feast of flavors, it was a feast for all of the senses. If you were not able to make it this year, be sure to mark your calendar for next year!

Armondo’s

Italian Restaurant The Only Sidewalk Cafe in the Area

ARMONDO’S Italian Restaurant is a landmark of fine dining for more than 30 years,

and is located at 74-27 37Ave., in the Historic District of Jackson Heights, Queens. Visit us on our Website: www.armondositalianrestaurant.com

• For reservations or outgoing orders •

718-429-8552 718-898-0113 74-27 37th Ave., Jackson Heights

LIFESTYLE

Asian Feastival 2010

abor Day 2010. It was a beautiful day, with plenty of sunshine and a near cloudless sky. The place to be wasn’t the beach, it was the Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel in Flushing for the Asian Feastival, a one-day culinary festival and tasting event that celebrates local, authentic Asian cuisines in Queens. It was an opportunity to see, taste and appreciate the diverse culinary tastes that Queens has to offer all in one place. Walking from table to table, we came across regional favorites ranging from piping hot Shanghainese soup dumplings, char grilled Thai satay to Filipino lechon and ube cake. Area restaurants we spoke with included Happy Buddah, Hahm Ji Bach, and M&T Restaurant (Flushing), Ploy Thai and Java Village (Elmhurst), and of course, the Sheraton’s own Asian fusion restaurant, Deluge. It wasn’t all about the food. There were also some Asian beverages available to drink. It was here that we met our first Sake Sommelier, Chizuko Niikawa-Helton. Ms. Niikawa earned her prestigious Sake Sommelier Certificate at the Sake Service Institute (SSI), in Tokyo, Japan. She is extremely knowledgeable, and opened our eyes to how a glass of sake can truly be savored and appreciated. And speaking of appreciated, there’s nothing better than a cold beer on a hot day...and we were grateful to find one of our favorites, Taiwan beer, gladly offering samples to all who visited their table. What makes a food festival ‘special’? When you find that food yove never had before and fall totally in love with it. And this was what happened when we had Yeo’s Kaya Spread (available at Whole Food Supermarkets). Made from coconut and pandan, this jelly-like spread comes in an attractive blue can (looks like and over-sized

by Joe Meny can of tuna), and has such a unique, sweet flavor, we not only lingered for a while at their table, but went ot the very next day to get some! In addition to the tastings, there were a variety of programs for those interested in learning more from the culinary experts. Programs included moderated panel discussions on Asian spices, the wok, understanding sustainable seafood, deconstructing Southeast Asian flavors, and the next generation of Asian American cuisine. We were thrilled with the numerous cooking demos, an on-site Asian farmer’s market (talk about fresh!), a food bike tour, and a guided culinary tour of Flushing. It was a fun day, filled with great food, fun people, and great weather!

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PEOPLE

Katty Lau

Diamond Girl

atty Lau is a young up-and-coming jewelry designer who has stores all over metropolitan New York. The first thing I felt when I sat down with this beautiful, petite Asian woman was how gentle and kind her inner spirit was. She radiated charm and purity while also possessing inner power and strength . . . much like the stones she most loves to work with -- diamonds! She is native to Hong Kong and was raised in Queens. Her art education includes classes at Parsons and F.I.T in New York and much time spent in Paris and Florence. But her education goes well beyond the teachings of any books and what any school could teach. The textures 64 ASIAN FUSION

by Louis Balletta

and shapes of stones inspire her. She is drawn to the minimalist style of modernism. All of her inspiration gets channeled out onto the paper in which she sketches out her creations, in the most organic and simple way -- by hand. She clearly has the sixth sense that the great artists in their respective fields develop from their own passion for what they love. In Katty’s case, this passion is making the right piece of jewelry for her individual clients. Like a hair cutter who examines the bone structure of a client’s face before cutting hair or a fitness trainer that has to assess his clients postural imbalances before attempting to improve their body, Katty determines the right

fit, design, and quality for her clients according to their every characteristic. As she told me, she likes to also, educate her clients this so they are on the same frequency when determining the best possible look and fit for the jewelry. The customer has to know as much about the product as the people designing it and selling it to make the best possible decision when buying. Most importantly she wants the customer to feel comfortable. At her chic signature store, Magnolia at 160 Canal Street, she helps her customers find exactly what they are looking for in the most personal way. She stresses that her customer service is second to none and that she will attend to every need and want to whoever comes in. It is a very personalized experience that separates her business from the others. She has a wide variety of products with lower priced items that maintain a great quality. On the other side of the spectrum, she offers pieces for the more refined taste, which of course carry a higher price tag. For example, I asked her about wedding bands. Her wedding bands can be priced at 300 - 400 dollars and go up to 1,000 - 3000 dollars. There is also immense hidden value in the fact that most of these items aren’t made a second time the same way. When I walked through the store, I asked about certain showcased items. She told me they were the only ones made in that particular way. Many of the pieces in Magnolia are indeed one-ofa-kind. She told me her target customer is the young professional who usually prefers custom designs. Katty believes that despite her commitment to personalizing the jewelry buying experience, she can still be competitive in terms of price. Her collection could be recently seen on the competitors of the Miss New York Chinese Beauty Pageant whose thirteen finalists appeared at the Mohegan Sun wearing her jewelry. The winner, Cynthia Zang, received a custom-made diamond pendant of the logo of the competition, which was worth thousands of dollars. Katty was very excited about the competition, the girls, and the viewing of her precious creations being brought to life. She tells me there are many things to consider

when choosing the specifics for the female model contestants. The color of their skin, their height, build, and unique beauty traits all play into the creative selection process in which she enjoys. Katty has definite plans of getting her product out into different stores, which she is doing currently. She tests different locations throughout New York to see where her jewelry would sell. She also is looking to expand through other avenues and platforms to become more visible. I asked Katty if she has plans to adorn the divas that walk the red carpet, or actresses on the big screen in diamonds. She quickly responded “yes.” When I asked her who she thought to be the best fit for her pieces her first answer was Angelina Jolie. She likes her because she is beautiful, powerful, dynamic, and sophisticated – and a perfect mother for her children. But most importantly she said, “Angelina is strong and knows what she wants.” As for male stars, she sees the handsome Vincent Gallo as a wonderful complement to her pieces. A day in the life of Katty usually consists of ordering jewelry, managing her store, going to trade shows, corporate work and doing many various mini-projects that could include just about anything. Even the design of the furniture in the store bears her vision and artistic touch. She told me that if she weren’t in the jewelry business, she would be in the textile design business. She also told me she admires the work and fashion of the designer Alexander MacQueen. She likes to unwind at restaurants like Sobaya, which is a restaurant specializing in Japanese pasta. She happily adds, “It’s all about the food there.” She also loves to eat Italian at Emporio on Mott Street. Seeing all of her success, I was compelled to ask Katty if she thought she had “made it” yet. She said “no”. Well, most of the greats aren’t ever satisfied, so I understood her answer. That’s what makes them so great. They keep progressing -- which Katty Lau is surely doing at a rapid rate. Take one step into her store Magnolia and look at her design and jewelry and see for yourself. Her exceptional talent speaks for itself -- she HAS made it! 2010 Fall

FASHION

66 ASIAN FUSION

Miss NY Chinese Beauty Pageant 2010 Title Winner

Cynthia Zhang 2010 Fall

FASHION PAGEANT FINAL THE END OF A JOURNEY By Dave Flores

his year, the most anticipated event held at Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino was none other than the Miss New York Chinese pageant finals. Thirteen finalists, who by now had worked so hard to reach this point, were awaiting anxiously to be judged for the number one spot and ultimately crowned the Miss New York Chinese pageant queen of 2010. The finalists were judged throughout the evening for various performances, including tap dancing, singing and any other talent they could bring to the stage. All the while trying to charm both audience and judges alike. An added and surprising bonus was improvisational acting. The chosen candidates were given a scenario and would subsequently play out an un-scripted scene. It was fun for

68 ASIAN FUSION

everyone, as the competitors revealed some comedic flare, and the audience had a positive response. Needless to say, this presented a great opportunity for them to strut their stuff, as people who are involved in the film and television industry, were certainly among the thousands sitting in the audience. And what is a beauty pageant without a swimsuit competition? This pageant certainly stayed within standard procedure, as the girls displayed sophistication in anything they adorned. Of course, it was one of the many highlights to watch. The contestants were definitely being motivated by a great set of guest-hosts. One of which was a former Miss New York Chinese pageant winner, along with Mr. Steven Ma and special guest Louis Yuen, who are very well known celebrities from abroad. Their involvement played a pivotal role by providing the finalists with much needed inspiration and by also adding to the intensity of the event, surely giving some of the models a nerveracking experience.

2010 Fall

BEAUTY BEAUTY

Ask the Expert Beauty Tips for Fall

ummer has flown by just like every summer has before it. Now, it is time to get your skin and your look ready for autumn in New York City. Our resident expert, Everlyn Ho, provides us with these insightful tips to keep our skin glowing and healthy all autumn long. 1) Reverse the sun damage from the summer. That summer sun may have kissed your skin with a great bronze tint, but with that sun-kissed look comes damage, which causes early signs of aging. Replenish those vital nutrients to help keep those early signs of aging at bay. Reverse the damage with an oxygen treatment or a vitamin C treatment La Peau offers both. 2) Drink plenty of water. Hydration is a great way to keep your skin fit after a hot and sunny summer. It is also crucial in the dry season. Autumn and winter are the driest seasons in New York. You may not sweat like it is summer time, but you are still losing hydration. As you walk around this amazing city, remember to carry a bottle of water with you. 3) Use a moisture mask in the evening. Even if you think you donÕt have the time, cleanse your

70 ASIAN FUSION

by Sophia Hsu

face. If it is feeling a little tight immediately after drying, then your skin is telling you that you need more moisture. Spread on a little moisture mask, and go finish those dishes in the sink or pack your lunch for tomorrow. Wash it off, and you should be ready for bed. 4) Moisturize before going to bed. With your body at rest, your pores open and relax allowing all kinds of things to absorb into the skin. Instead of dirt and pollution, moisturize with a vitamin rich night cream. Night creams tend to be a little thicker than daily moisturizers which can provide an extra layer of protection and nutrition for your face at night. 5) Pamper your hair. After the harsh sun of summer, this is the time to start using a slightly heavier conditioner. As this is the dry season, your hair needs a little more moisture, so don’t forget to pamper your hair with a little more moisture this fall. Fall beauty trend: ‘The Barely There Look’ nude lips and the no makeup look were all over the fashion week catwalk. Match the barely there look with a fish tail braid or a messy updo this fall.

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TRAVEL

India HISTORY & BEAUTY

early five thousand years back, Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first major civilization flourished along the Indus River valley. The twin cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa, now in Pakistan, were ruled by priests and held the rudiments of Hinduism. These civilizations are known to possess a sophisticated lifestyle, a highly developed sense of aesthetics, an astonishing knowledge of town planning and an undecipherable script language. The Indus civilization at one point of time extended nearly a million square kilometres across the Indus river valley. It existed at the same time as the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Sumer, but far outlasted them. Surviving for nearly a thousand years, the Indus valley civilisation fell to tectonic upheavals in about 1700 BC, which caused a series of floods. The coming of the Aryans around 1500 BC, gave the final blow to the collapsing Indus Valley civilization. At the dawn of the Vedic ages, the Aryans came in from the North and spread through large parts of India, bringing 74 ASIAN FUSION

with them their culture and religious beliefs. The Four Vedas, known as the important books of Hinduism, were compiled in this period. In 567 B.C., the founder of the Buddhist religion, Gautama Buddha, was born. During this time lived Mahavira, who founded the Jain Religion. The Indian subcontinent is full of caves and monuments devoted to these religions and are truly worth a visit. Two hundred years later, in the 4th century B.C., Emperor Ashoka, one of the greatest Kings in Indian history, led the Mauryan Empire to take over almost all of what is now modern India. This great leader embraced Buddhism and built the group of monuments at Sanchi (a UNESCO world heritage site). The Ashoka pillar at Sarnath has been adopted by India as its national emblem and the Dharma Chakra on the Ashoka Pillar adorns the National Flag. They were followed by the Guptas in the north, while in the southern part of India several different Hindu empires, the Cholas, the Pandyas, and the Cheras spread and grew, trading with Europe and other parts of Asia till

the end of the 1100s. Christianinty entered India from Europe at about the same time. Legend has it that St. Thomas the Apostle arrived in India in 52 A.D. Even earlier than that, people of the Jewish religion had already arrived on India’s shores. In approximately the 7th century A.D. a group of Zoroastrians, or Parsees, landed in Gujarat and became a part of what is now the large mix of religions in India today, each of which adds its important and distinctive flavour. In the 15th century, Guru Nanak laid the foundation of the Sikh religion in Punjab. In 1192, Mohammed of Ghori, a ruler from Afghanistan, came into India and captured several places in the north including Delhi. When he went home, he left one of his generals in charge who became the first Sultan of Delhi. During this time Islam, was introduced into a major part of Northern India. It may be mentioned that even before that, just after the period of the prophet, Islam was brought to the western coast of India by Arab traders and flourished in what is now Kerala. The Dehli Sultanate gradually took control of more and more of North India over the next 200 years, till Timur, who was called “Timur the Lame” or “Tamberlane” came from Turkey in 1398 to attack India. He and his army stole all the valuables that they could carry and left. After that the Delhi Sultanate was never so strong again. Soon the Mughals, who were from Iran, came in and took control of the north. In the meantime in the south in 1336, the Hindu Vijayanagar empire was set up and became very strong. The Europeans - Portuguese, French, Dutch, Danish and British - started arriving in the early 1600s. All of them held territories in India and made friends and enemies among India’s rulers as they got more and more involved, with the Indian politics, but it was the British who eventually controlled most of India and finally made it one of their colonies. India got its independence from Britain in 1947 after a long struggle led mostly by

Mahatma Gandhi. In the process of becoming independent, India became two countries instead of one. In the years since independence, India has made huge progress and coped with great problems, and has developed its industry and its agriculture, and has maintained a system of government which makes it the largest democracy in the world. In a country as diverse and complex as India, it is not surprising to find that people here reflect the rich glories of the past And based on five thousand years of recorded history, the culture, traditions and values relative to geographic locations and the numerous distinctive manners, habits and food will always remain truly Indian. From the eternal snows of the Himalayas to the cultivated peninsula of far South, from the deserts in the West to the humid deltas in the East, from the dry heat and cold of the Central Plateau to the cool forest foothills, Indian lifestyles clearly glorify the geography. The food, clothing and habits of an Indian will differ in accordance to their place of origin. Indians believe in sharing happiness and sorrow. A festival or a celebration is never constrained to a family or a home. The whole community or neighbourhood is involved in bringing liveliness to an occasion. A lot of festivals like Diwali, Holi, Id, Christmas, Mahaveer Jayanthi are all celebrated by sharing sweets and pleasantries with family, neighbors and friends. An Indian wedding is an occasion that calls for participation of the family and friends. Similarly, neighbors and friends always help out a family in times of need. Ethnically, Indians speak different languages, follow different religions, and eat the most diverse varieties of food, all of which add to the rich Indian culture. The beauty of the Indian people lies in the spirit of tolerance, give-and-take and a composition of cultures that can be compared to a garden of flowers of various colours and shades of which, while maintaining their own entity, lend harmony and beauty to the garden - India! 2010 Fall

TRAVEL the nucleus of this fascinating performing art. Later century works like Abhinaya Darpana, Abhinaya Chandrike, also have great relevance to the dancer today. Legend has it that the Devas (Gods) had vanquished the Asuras (Evil) and were relating the happenings to Brahma, the God of Creation. The Asuras thought this was a renewed attack and retaliated. Brahma intervened - “This is only a performance, hence forth it will only be held on earth”. And Brahma passed on all the information on Dance and Drama to Bharata Muni who compiled it as the Natya Shastra. Temples were raised to the house of the Gods and became the focal point for the community. They also became centers of learning and contributed to the advancement of such arts as sculpture, painting, music and dance. Mostly built by Kings, who were also the patrons of arts, encouraging a continuity and enriching rituals of worship, the earliest basis of the classical performing arts. It was from the temple that the Devdasi cult (Temple Dancers who performed for the Lord) began. Once a practice countrywide the Kulvantalu in Andhra Pradesh, the Maibi in Manipur, the Devdasi in Tamil Nadu and the Mahari in Orissa, all trace their roots to the temple. The countless sculptures in the temples that portray dance poses, hint at the potency of dance as a path to spiritual exaltation and lays out a complete lexicon of dance techniques. For instance, it is said that the greater part of vocabulary of Odissi dance is preserved in stone. Truly, a rich heritage to be brought alive by the artist. The Indian cuisine boasts of an immense variety not restricted to only curry. An authentic Indian curry is an intricate combination of a stir-fried Masala - a mixture of onion, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes; various spices and seasonings with which 76 ASIAN FUSION

meat; poultry, vegetables or fish is prepared to produce a stew-type dish. Note: the word Masala also means spice. Food in India is wide ranging in variety, taste and flavour. Being so diverse geographically, each region has its own cuisine and style of preparation. Indian cuisine, renowned for its exotic gravies seems complicated for any newcomer. The Mughlai cuisine of the north differs sharply from the preparations of the south. The Wazwan style of Kashmir is luxurious but the same can be said about Bengal’s Macher Jhol, Rajasthan’s Dal Bati, Uttar Pradesh’s Kebabs and Punjab’s Sarson Ka Saag and Makki di Roti. In India, as in many cultures, recipes are handed down from generation to generation. The unique and strong flavours in Indian cuisine are derived from spices, seasonings and nutritious ingredients such as leafy vegetables, grains, fruits, and legumes. Most of the spices used in Indian cooking were originally chosen thousands of years ago for their medicinal qualities and not for flavor. Many of them, such as turmeric, cloves and cardamoms, are very antiseptic; others, like ginger, are carminative and good for the digestion. All curries are made using a wide variety of spices. In Indian cuisine, food is categorized into six tastes - sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent. A well-balanced Indian meal will contain all six tastes, but not always can this be accomplished. This principle can help explain the use of numerous spice combinations and depth of flavour in Indian recipes. Side dishes and condiments like chutneys, curries, daals and Indian pickles contribute to, and add to the overall flavour and texture of a meal and provide the needed balance.

LIFESTYLE SNEAK PEEK

Our Special Restaurant Issue By Sophia Hsu

ew York City has a vibrant, yet discerning, dining crowd. Even the majority of the apartments (within my budget) are designed for takeout and dining out culture. The kitchens in most apartments can end up being two burners, no stove, and a mini-fridge - with the bathroom right in the room next door! That kind of kitchen is meant for heating up leftovers, not for throwing a dinner party. So, New York, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dine out! Let the economy know whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the boss. In our upcoming first annual Restaurant issue, Asian Fusion will focus on all of the Asian, Pan-Asian, and Asian-friendly eateries in the five boroughs. This will be an epic collection of reviews, photos, and maps of some of the best Asian cuisine one can find in new York City.

What can you expect from our Restaurant issue? Here's a little taste: Japanese - East Village Cha An 230 East 9th St The desserts and tea-themed cocktails are fantastic - typical Japanese flavors, but with a twist. Don't forget to check out the bathroom. The automated toilet from Japan makes it a true highlight in the city. Ippudo NY 65 4th Ave Get your ramen fix here. With fresh ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors, Ippudo provides the discerning guest with a new palate of flavors in familiar styles. Otafuku 236 East 9th St. If you're looking for real Japanese street food in New York City, you have come to the right place. Have the fresh takoyaki - tasty balls of lovely octopus. Yakitori Taisho 5 Saint Mark's Place If you love food on a stick, you will love yakitori. The chicken skin on a skewer is the best. Oh! Taisho! 9 Saint Mark's Place So many yakitori places, so little time. The staff is attentive and the roasted quail's eggs and spicy cod roe mayo for the mentai potatoes are quite the taste sensation. Pan Ya 8 Stuyvesant St Japanese pan (bread) is soft and sweet, like a cuddly puppy or kitten. Pan Ya has so much more than just pan. Hot foods, cold foods, Japanese beverages, and everything you would want a Japanese deli to have...and more.

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Asian-Americans Dominate the American fashion awards by Joe Meny

t was an exciting evening back in June at the American fashion awards ceremony held at Lincoln Center. Considered by many to be the Oscars of the fashion world, the audience included celebrities Gwyneth Paltrow and Sarah Jessica Parker, along with nearly every top fashion designer. Talk about star power! It was clear who the evening belonged to when up on the stage were three men accepting their awards as the best new designers of the year. Creating the Asian-American tri-fecta were Alexander Wang for accessories, Richard Chai for men’s wear, and Jason Wu for women’s wear. The Council of Fashion Designers had, for the first time, awarded all three top prizes to Asian-Americans. The fashion council that evening also awarded $25,000 scholarships to three student designers who were of Asian

background. It was a proud night indeed! Mr. Wu, you may recall, earned national and international fame when First Lady Michelle Obama chose one of his dress designs to wear to the inaugural balls the evening Barack Obama became president. the dress is now part of the permanent exhibition of First Ladies gowns at the Simthsonian Institution’s Museum of American History in Washington D.C. The rise of these Asian-Americans in the New York fashion world is representative of a cultural and demographic change that has been gradually happening since the early ‘90’s. Other members of this trend-setting group include Prabal Gurang, Derek Lam, Thakoon Panichgul, and Phillip Lim. Since his star turn with Mrs. Obama, Mr. Wu will be traveling back to his native Taiwan in October to bring his designing talents to help develop a residential building. He has also begun a partnership with cosmetics giant Shiseido to develop a line of eye shadow. Asian fashion designers in America are nothing new. One needs only to look to such trail-blazers as Issey Miyake, Anna Sui, and Vera Wang. This continung influence of the Asian fashion perspective in a fast-paced and ever-changing world will, however, continue to bring with it a unique world-view that can only enlighten and enhance the fascinating world of women’s fashion. Consider pictures of the following AsianAmerican fashion designers to accompany this article: Jason Wu, Richard Chai, and Alexander Wang .

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2010 Fall

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LIFESTYLE by Sophia Hsu with Jessica Lee & Chris Hansen

KOREAN PARADE 86 ASIAN FUSION

The 30th Annual Korean Day Parade

n a brief reprieve from the fall rain, this particular Saturday was bright, sunny and warm. It was a perfect day for a parade and a block party. October 2nd marked the 30th anniversary of the Korean Day Parade. Nearly 100 organizations and almost 2,000 people participated in the march from 38th Street to 27th Street. The Korean American Association of Greater New York, in conjunction with The Korea Times and several other groups including the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Overseas Koreans Foundation, the Korean Cultural Service New York, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in New York, and the Busan Cultural Foundation helped create this year’s event. The parade and block party theme this year was ‘A Taste of Seoul’ – a chance to give New Yorkers a view into South Korea’s capital city - its taste, culture, and sounds. As part of the parade, a dramatic display of peace envoys in full Korean traditional regalia representing Joseon Tongsinsa, goodwill missions sent from Korea to Japan between 1392 and 1590, and again between 1607 and 1811, marched in the parade. One hundred thirty-six re-enactors of these diplomatic and cultural delegations traveled from South Korea to New York to anchor the parade. The original missions led to nearly 200 years of peace between Japan and Korea. “Just as these delegations were sent to build friendly relations between Korea and Japan, so is the delegation coming to the U.S. to spread Korean goodwill and a message of peace to the U.S. and New Yorkers,” said Yonghwa Ha, president of KAAGNY. Several politicians including a representative from

the mayor’s office delivered speeches about the strength of the Korean community. Other presenters included religious and community leaders. With a Kids Corner, Korean TV’s singing contest, and foods provided by New York’s fine Korean establishments, the Korean Day festivities mixed the traditional with the modern, and drew a crowd of multi-ethnic New Yorkers. Young children, and those young at heart, waved Korean and American flags with enthusiasm showing their support for the organizations and their floats. A performance of Salmunori, a folk dance involving drums and gongs, rounded out the entertainment portion of the day. Games such as jump rope, je gi – a type of hacky sack, tu ho – tossing a stick/arrow into a bucket from a distance, and kong gi – Korean jacks, provided a variety of family-friendly activities. The delicious aromas of the foods available at the block party truly excited the crowd. The enthusiastic onlookers floated from booth to booth in search of the next succulent morsel. Partygoers could find an assortment of delectable foods and drinks – even free samples! Chom Chom Restaurant sold seafood pajun – Korean pancakes, kim bap – Korean version of sushi, ramyun and more. Other local favorite restaurants like Kun Jip and Kang Suh gave away samples of kalbi – short ribs, mandoo – dumplings, fried rice, and packaged goods like sticky rice treats and cakes, walnut cookies, and pumpkin shikye – a sweet beverage made of rice. The most popular giveaway was KyoChin fried chicken’s raffling off free chicken combo meals. Around 6pm, the crowd transformed – all of the families went home while the young K-Town diners waited in line to be seated at their favorite restaurants. My eyes in the field, Jessica Lee, and her family went to their favorite establishment, Won Jo, for kalbi and spicy seafood soup. We’re definitly looking forward to next year’s parade and celebration! 2010 Fall

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LIFESTYLE

Asian Events Calendar October 15, 2010 -- January 15, 2010

Yoshitomo Nara: Nobody’s Fool Location: Asia Society, 725 Park Ave, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Thursday, September 9, 2010 to Sunday, January 2, 2011, 11:00am to 6:00pm Tues - Sun (closed Mon) Tickets: $10.00; $7.00 for seniors and $5 for students with ID free for members and persons under 16 Free admission on Fridays from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. Asia Society presents a major exhibition of Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara (born 1959), one of the most influential and internationally renowned Neo Pop artists working today. The exhibition comprises 20 years of paintings, sculpture, drawings, and large-scale installations. Yoshitomo Nara: Nobody’s Fool draws connections between the artist’s work and the sensibilities of youth subcultures worldwide, focusing on themes of alienation and rebellion, particularly in relation to rock and punk music. The graphic nature of Nara’s art recalls the lyrics of rock groups such as Nirvana, The Doors, and The Ramones, and his art has inspired a cult following among youth throughout Asia. For more information, check out http://asiasociety. org/events-calendar/yoshitomo-nara-nobodys-fool. Journey to the West, A story in the style of Beijing Opera told in English and Chinese Location: Queens Library at Jackson Heights, 35-51 81 St, Jackson Heights, Queens Date(s) and Time(s): Saturday, October 2, 2010 to Saturday, October 16, 2010, 2:30 pm- 3:45 pm Elaborate costuming, make-up, singing, dance, music, mime, stage fighting and acrobatics make this colorful show fun for audiences of all 94 ASIAN FUSION

by Sophia Hsu

ages where China’s most beloved tale (told in 4 episodes) of the Monkey King comes to life and the audience gets a chance to learn some Chinese, too! Be sure to attend all episodes at Jackson Heights 9/25, 10/2, 10/9 and 10/16 at 2:30 p.m. For more information and other events, check out http://www.queenslibrary.org. Sankai Juku Location: The Joyce, 175 Eighth Ave, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Tuesday, October 5, 2010 Ð Sunday, October 17, 2010 Tickets: $10.00 - $59.00 The Joyce (http://www.joyce.org/) debut of Sankai Juku, Japans most prominent success in dance (The New York Times), provides an unprecedented chance to see this revered company perform in an intimate setting. The most recent work of esteemed Director Ushio Amagatsus, Tobari Ð As if in an Inexhaustible Flux, is a piece that explores the journey of life, death and rebirth through mesmerizing images that evoke flickering light and spare darkness, the passage of time, and the shifting of the seasons. To see Tobari is to experience butoh at its best--traditional hypnotic movement flowing with new energy in a visually powerful and beautiful work. For more information, check out http://joyce. org/performancestickets/calendar_detail. php?event=335&theater=1. Cosplay Competition Location: Asia Society, 725 Park Ave, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Friday, October 15, 2010; sign-up and costumer prep from 7:00 Ð 7:30pm Tickets: Free admission.

Advanced registration recommended. In conjunction with the exhibition Yoshitomo Nara: NobodyÕs Fool, Asia Society presents its first Cosplay competition. Strut your stuff and celebrate manga, anime, and more by dressing up as your favorite character. For more information, check out http://asiasociety. org/events-calendar/cosplay-competition. Renaissance Chinese Opera Society presents Chinese Opera Performance Location: Queens Library at Flushing, 41-17 Main St, Flushing, Queens Date(s) and Time(s): Saturday, October 16, 2010, 2:00pm Ð 4:00 pm Tickets: Free admission. Excerpts from three operas will be showcased: 1. At the Palace; 2. The Persecution of General Lo; 3. When the Beloved are Parted. *In Auditorium, Lower Level* For more information and other events, check out http://www.queenslibrary.org. Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage Walk Location: Picnic House, Prospect Park, Brooklyn Date(s) and Time(s): Sunday, October 17, 2010, 1:00pm Tickets: Free admission. Explore the colors that autumn brings to this park. For more information and other events, check out http://www.prospectpark.org/picnic. CHINA Town Hall Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Monday, October 18, 7:00 Ð 9:00pm Tickets: $7.00; $4.00 for students and seniors with ID; free for members. For more information, check out http://www. mocanyc.org/. Words in Motion: Towards a Global Lexicon Location: Asia Society, 725 Park Ave, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Thursday, October 21, 2010, 6:30pm Ð 8:30pm Tickets: $15; $12 for students and seniors with ID $10 for members.

On the premise that words have the power to make worlds, each essay in Words in Motion: Toward a Global Lexicon follows a word as it travels around the globe and across time. Scholars from five disciplines address 13 societies to highlight the social and political life of words in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, from the mid-19th century to the present. Such words as responsibility in Japan, community in Thailand, and hij?b in France changed the societies in which they moved even as the words were changed by them. Some words threatened to launch wars, others worked in silence to agitate for political change. Editors Carol Gluck and Anna Lowenhaupt Tsing discuss the power and mutability of words. Followed by a book sale and signing. For more information, check out http://asiasociety. org/events-calendar/words-motion-towards-globallexicon. Target Free Thursday Screening: Carved in Silence Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Thursday, October 21, 2010, 6:30pm Tickets: Free admission provided by Target. Carved in Silence reveals the previously untold story of the Exclusion Era Ð its genesis, its reality, and its consequences. Focusing on the detention of Chinese immigrants at Angel Island Immigration Station in San Francisco Bay, the documentary combines interviews with historical footage and dramatic re-enactments to translate the impact of public policies into human terms. Please join MOCA for a special screening followed by Q&A with the filmmaker, Felicia Lowe. For more information about the filmmaker, check out http://www.mocanyc.org/. Who Am I? Location: Asia Society, 725 Park Ave, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Sunday, October 24, 2010, 3:00pm Ð 4:15pm Tickets: $15.00 for children; $12 for child of a member. Free admission for adults. Advance ticket purchase required. ExploreAsia: Art and Japan Today Family Series This fall, Asia Society and New York City-based children’s arts studio HiArt! are teaming up to bring you the grooviest family programming ever in celebration of the work of Japanese 2010 Fall

contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara. Every other Sunday you and your family will have the opportunity to join HiArt! Founder and Director Cyndie Bellen-BerthŽz�ne on a special interactive tour of the exhibit Yoshitomo Nara: Nobody’s Fool at Asia Society. Each tour will feature a host of pre- and post-tour activities guaranteed to make Nara’s already wonderful work even more exciting for children. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to discover the spirit of this amazing artist! For more information, check out http://asiasociety. org/events-calendar/who-am-i. Target Free Thursday Author Talk with Henry Chang Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Thursday, October 28, 2010, 6:30pm Tickets: Free admission provided by Target. Henry Chang, a New Yorker, a native son of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, reads from the third book in the ÔChinatown Trilogy,Õ Red Jade. In this installment, NYPD Detective Jack Yu’s investigation takes him across the country to another Chinatown, this one in Seattle. Jack tracks a cold-blooded Chinese-American gangster and a mysterious Hong Kong femme fatale. Followed by booksigning. For more information, check out http://www. mocanyc.org/. Performance by Dana Leong Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Sunday, October 31, 2010, 2:00pm Tickets: $20.00; $18 for students and seniors with ID; $15 for members. For more information, check out http://www. mocanyc.org/. Event: Chinese Puzzles Opening and CuratorÕs Talk Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Saturday, November 6, 2010, 3:30pm Tickets: Please check website for more information http:// mocanyc.org.

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Jews and Chinese Food with Museum of Living Jewish Heritage Ð From Coffeehouse to Banquet Halls Walking Tour Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Sunday, November 7, 2010, 4:00pm Tickets: Please check website for more information http:// mocanyc.org. Young Professionals Gala Location: to be announced Date(s) and Time(s): Wednesday, November 10, 2010 Tickets: Please check website for more information http:// mocanyc.org. Museum of Chinese in America Gala Location: Cipriani Wall Street, 55 Wall Street Date(s) and Time(s): Thursday, November 11, 2010, 6:30pm Tickets: Please check the website for a reservation form and more information http://www.mocanyc.org/ support_moca/legacy_dinner. The 31st annual legacy dinner for the Museum of Chinese in America is a tradition honoring Chinese in America who have made major contributions to society. Please see the website for highlights from last yearÕs gala and see those who were honored. Author Talk with Yunte Huang on Charlie Chan Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Friday, November 19, 2010, 6:30pm Tickets: Please check website for more information http:// mocanyc.org. Chinese Cinema Club: Take Out Location: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St, New York, NY Date(s) and Time(s): Friday, December 3, 2010, 7:00pm Tickets: Please check website for more information http:// mocanyc.org.

IN THE SHOOT Renessta

Aurelia Dagorn

KaiLee Parker

Jason T. Jaskot first picked up a camera in high school, and he fell in love with taking pictures and making his own black and white prints. Today he is a working photographer with a studio in Hoboken, New Jersey, just minutes outside of Manhattan. His first published work appeared in the New York Times, the photo was submitted by a local band which the paper was writing a feature on; since then his work has appeared in several national and local magazines and newspapers, on billboards throughout New Jersey, and on product packaging. Currently, his studio is housed in the Monroe Art Center, home to other artists, artisans and craftspeople. He is available for all types of photography, including fitness, body and commercial modeling; headshots for acting, modeling or corporate use and corporate/ advertising projects. Aurelia Dagorn is a French Make-up Artist graduated from Make Up For Ever Academy in Paris. After school, she caught on and built up experiences as a Freelance Make-up Artist for a few years working for Make Up For Ever-Paris at the same time. Aurelia also worked on TV/Fashion/ Beauty shows, Body/Face Painting shows, Cinema, Theater, and numerous Photo shoots. Coming to New York was a new challenge

for Aurelia and she wanted to bring her French touch and freshness to the Big Apple. She is now working as a freelance Make Up Artist and already has a very busy schedule. Bubbling over with creativity, she always wants to find and test new concepts and techniques. ReneeOStyleLab is the brainchild of fashion stylist and costume designer Renessta Olds. Born in Germany and raised in NY, Renessta has a lifelong love of fashion. Renessta is the Fashion Editor of Signature Hits Magazine and has been a contributing fashion writer for Lucky Chic.com and The Swank Report. She has styled editorials for MF Magazine featuring singer Kristine Elezaj, Signature Hits Magazine featuring Michael Kenneth Williams from HBO’s “The Wire”, Fiasco, Glossy and Asian Fusion Magazines. Renessta attended New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology’s Continual Professional Program in Fashion Styling and Costume Design. She is also a graduate of Hunter College, receiving a B.A. in Political Science. KaiLee Parker is a 20 something year old freelance stylist living in NYC. She is from Los Angeles and is working diligently to make a name for herself in the fashion industry. She enjoys cooking, shopping and exploring her new love NYC. 2010 97 Fall

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