Whenever I have the opportunity to see Jessica - from dinner at Juanita & Maude to relaxing at Bathhouse Williamsburg in New York - it’s always a truly enriching time. Since meeting during undergrad at the University of Denver during our shared time at Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, it’s truly been meaningful to have such a continued connection during adulthood.
But, what really means the most in a friendship is the power of being present when someone you love is going through a time of deep, soul shifting change and turmoil. So, when we met at Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar, the hug I gave Jessica meant more to me than anything else I could have done in that moment. I literally planned a complete trip around seeing her for dinner. Sometimes, all you can do is to sit across from you friend, let them know that you see them, are empathetic to their struggles and that you are there for them. To listen, let them process and move energy. That’s friendship.
The Mekong Turmeric Cake – Bánh Khọt (Turmeric rice flour batter cooked in a cast iron skillet, topped with shrimp, coconut and scallion sauce) was absolutely fantastic. I would honestly come back to Tay Ho Oakland just to order this.
My Bun Cha Hanoi – Obama Bun Cha (Pork shoulder, lemongrass pork belly meatballs, pickled green papaya, pickled leeks & carrots, rice vermicelli, smoky sweet broth) was also delicious.
My time with Jessica was perfectly paired with dinner at Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar. We laughed, I cried and most importantly – we connected over great food in Oakland.
Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar
344 12th StreetOakland, California 94607
