Blog
NEP Café Redefines Modern Vietnamese Dining with a Bold New Chapter
04.07.25
As the Vietnamese American community marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese immigration to the United States in 2025, Kei Concepts proudly unveils a revitalized vision for NEP Café. First launched in 2020 to share the essence of Vietnam with those unable to travel during the pandemic, NEP Café now offers a dynamic interpretation of modern Vietnam — vibrant, evolving, and deeply rooted in tradition.
From its inception, NEP Café has been dedicated to bringing the authentic flavors of Vietnam to Orange County’s Vietnamese American community. Now, it embarks on an exciting new chapter, blending cherished traditions with innovative dishes and a reimagined dining experience inspired by Vietnam’s culinary evolution. This refresh captures “Vietnam as it is now,” honoring its rich cultural heritage while embracing its modern culinary spirit.
The journey continues in Fountain Valley, with an expansion to Irvine already underway. Guests can savor a thoughtfully curated menu that pairs beloved staples with inventive new offerings. Iconic dishes like Seafood Ceviche and Egg Coffee remain, while the refresh marks the return of fan favorites such as Bone Marrow Pasta and Salted Egg Yolk Pasta. The signature Banh Mi Chao now offers customizable options like Laughing Cow cheese, truffle butter, Chinese sausage, and extra bone marrow for a personalized touch. New additions, including Xoi Ga Roti, Ribeye Banh Mi Chao, Curry Crab Omelet, and an array of desserts, embody the bold and vibrant flavors of contemporary Vietnam.
This revitalized menu underscores NEP Café’s unwavering commitment to quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and a welcoming dining experience for both loyal patrons and first-time visitors.
With this exciting refresh, Kei Concepts reaffirms its dedication to creating unique culinary experiences that celebrate the depth and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. NEP Café invites the community to join in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and embracing the future of Vietnamese American culture.
NEP Cafe has locations in Fountain Valley’s Little Saigon (10826 Warner Ave.) and Irvine (14346 Culver Dr.) and is open daily for brunch and dinner daily. For more information or visit the website.
Blog
Book Club with Bruce Cook Featuring Born in OC Rescheduled for April 10
04.04.25
The Balboa Island Museum in Newport Beach is hosting its first-ever Book Club event, now rescheduled for Wednesday, April 10, at 5:30 p.m. Emmy Award-nominated writer and producer Bruce Cook will moderate the evening and lead a conversation with me about my new book, Born in OC: The Artists, Entrepreneurs, and Visionaries of Orange County, California.
Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are $20 for museum members and $25 for non-members. RSVP by calling 949-675-3952.
Born in OC goes beyond Orange County’s reputation for surf and reality TV to shine a light on the creativity, innovation and diversity that define this community. The book celebrates the real people—artists, entrepreneurs, visionaries—who are making a difference not only in Orange County, but throughout Southern California and around the world.
Born in OC is available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through booksellers nationwide.
Balboa Island Museum is located at 210 Marine Ave. in Newport Beach.
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from the blog
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