NEP Café Redefines Modern Vietnamese Dining with a Bold New Chapter

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.

Support LA Fire Relief Efforts at HAVEN, PROVISIONS, and Chapman Crafted Beer

In response to the devastating Los Angeles County firestorm that has destroyed thousands of homes, displaced hundreds of thousands of residents, and impacted countless lives, HAVEN Craft Kitchen+Bar, PROVISIONS cafe • coffee • beer • wine • shop, and Chapman Crafted Beer in Orange are coming together to host an all-day fundraising event on Thursday, January 16. During the event, 100% of profits will be donated to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, helping to equip firefighters on the frontlines, and to the American Red Cross, which is providing critical shelter, food, emotional support, and health services to those affected by the wildfires.

How to Participate

• HAVEN Craft Kitchen+Bar: Make reservations at HAVENCraftKitchen.com. Walk-ins are also welcome.
• PROVISIONS and Chapman Crafted Beer: Walk-ins are welcome and seating is first come, first served.

If you’re unable to attend but still wish to support relief efforts, you can donate directly to:

• Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
• American Red Cross

Location & Information

• HAVEN Craft Kitchen+Bar
  190 S. Glassell Street, Orange
  Open daily. Reservations accepted, walk-ins welcome.
  Visit HAVENCraftKitchen.com for menus, hours, and online ordering.
• PROVISIONS
  143 N. Glassell Street, Orange
  Open daily.
  Visit ProvisionsDeli.Shop for more details.
• Chapman Crafted Beer
  Located in Old Towne Orange, Chapman Crafted is dedicated to brewing exceptional beers using the finest ingredients.
  Learn more at ChapmanCrafted.beer

Supporting Animals in Crisis: ASPCA and Pasadena Humane Respond to Southern California Wildfires

The ASPCA is currently providing assistance in Southern California at the request of Pasadena Humane, delivering emergency shelter supplies and support. Efforts are ongoing to determine where aid can address the most urgent needs in impacted areas.

The Southern California-based team overseeing the ASPCA Kitten Foster Program in Los Angeles remains safe, and more than 30 cats and kittens near the disaster zone have been relocated as a precautionary measure.

The wildfires have caused significant devastation, affecting local communities, pets, and shelters. Over 350 animals have been brought to Pasadena Humane following evacuation orders, with some arriving with burns and other injuries. It is expected that additional animals in critical condition will arrive in the coming days.

Donations to Pasadena Humane and local animal welfare organizations are encouraged to help protect California’s animals and pet owners during this crisis. Contributions can be made directly to Pasadena Humane at give.pasadenahumane.org/fire or to the ASPCA’s ongoing relief efforts at aspca.org/LAwildfire.

For donations by phone, please call (800) 628-0028.