News Summary
Asian Garden Mall, also known as Phước Lộc Thọ, has been a key gathering place for the Vietnamese community in Westminster, California since 1987. With its distinct architecture, the mall features hundreds of shops and a dynamic food court that offers a variety of Vietnamese and Chinese dishes. The vibrant atmosphere and community-oriented events, such as summer night markets, make it a cherished destination for both locals and visitors looking for authentic culinary experiences.
Westminster, California – Asian Garden Mall, also known as Phước Lộc Thọ, has been serving as a vital hub for the Vietnamese community since its opening in 1987. Located in Westminster, California, the mall has become a prominent site for shopping, dining, and cultural exchange for those connected to the community, particularly in the wake of the fall of Saigon.
The mall’s visually striking architecture, characterized by its green-tiled roofs, bright red paper lanterns, and red pagoda eaves above the entrance, sets the tone for visitors. Upon entering, guests are greeted by elegant statues of the deities Phước, Lộc, and Thọ, reinforcing the cultural significance of the site. Asian Garden Mall boasts hundreds of stores and services, effectively catering to the diverse needs and interests of its patrons.
A major attraction inside the mall is the horseshoe-shaped food court, which serves as a culinary showcase of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. The food court includes a mini-market filled with snacks and beverages, appealing to visitors looking for both quick bites and authentic meals. Many of the food options are available for takeout, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a relaxing environment on the second level.
Popular Culinary Offerings
The food court at Asian Garden Mall features a wide variety of popular dishes, including:
- Bún mắm: A flavorful noodle dish made with rice vermicelli, shrimp, and light fish broth.
- Bò nướng lá lốt: Grilled beef wrapped in fragrant betel leaves.
- Bánh cáy: A sweet, sticky rice treat that’s a favorite among many.
- Hột vịt lộn: Fertilized duck eggs, a delicacy enjoyed by locals.
- A colorful selection of fried rice options and specialty beverages like coffee with condensed milk, iced soy bean milk, fresh orange juice, and limeade.
C&C Express is another popular eatery in the food court that offers fast Vietnamese dishes. Menu highlights include:
- Nem chua: A fermented pork dish rich in flavor.
- Bánh xu xê: A chewy treat made from tapioca flour and mung bean paste.
- Sweet snacks and refreshing ICEE slushies.
A coffee and tea spot in the food court serves smoothies and iced teas, with tasty snacks like popcorn chicken and fries available. Near the rear entrance, Champagne Bakery offers a cash-only selection of sweet and savory pastries, bread loaves, and sandwiches, enticing visitors with its homemade appeal.
Dim Sum Bistro adds to the diverse culinary experience by offering traditional dim sum options such as homemade pork and shrimp siu mai, Cantonese sticky rice with pork and mushrooms, freshly made Hong Kong-style egg puff waffles, and sweet buns. The bistro also serves pho and Vietnamese coffee, ensuring a satisfying experience for customers. Additionally, Signature Myra’s Kitchen specializes in Vietnamese comfort food that includes:
- Bún bò huế: Beef noodle soup packed with spices.
- Bún riêu: Vermicelli crab soup that’s a local favorite.
- Cơm gà: Chicken rice, a staple comfort dish.
- Squid congee and fried egg rolls, adding variety to the menu.
Market Atmosphere and Community Engagement
The atmosphere at Asian Garden Mall is vibrant, making it a popular destination for both the local community and visitors from far and wide. During summer months, the mall hosts an open-air night market, providing an additional venue for local artisans and food vendors to showcase their offerings.
Moreover, Vua Kho Bo sells various beef jerky, nuts, dried fruits, and tea near the rear entrance, offering patrons even more options to explore. This mall remains a crucial element of Westminster’s cultural tapestry, acting as a gathering point where food, commerce, and community spirit thrive.
In conclusion, Asian Garden Mall stands as a testament to the resilience and richness of the Vietnamese culture within Orange County, offering a taste of home and the excitement of culinary discovery. For those looking to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine, the mall provides an unmatched selection enriched by its cultural heritage and community involvement.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Orange County Register: Mall Dining – The Ultimate Guide to Eating at Asian Garden Mall
- Wikipedia: Vietnamese Cuisine
- Caterer Middle East: Beyond the Kitchen – Myra, Jeddah’s Executive Pastry Chef on His Culinary Roots
- Google Search: Asian Garden Mall Westminster
- Alabama.com: 10 Signature Alabama Barbecue Dishes Everyone Needs to Try
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vietnamese Cuisine
- Caterer Middle East: The Week’s Big Saudi F&B Stories
- Google News: Asian Garden Mall
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
