By Thúy Hằng

Leaving Hà Nội on a winter day for a short trip to Quảng Nam, I never imagined a working trip would be so busy with an agenda filled with… leisure and eating.

Over two days, I and other group members were taken on an “epicurean journey” where we enjoyed great culinary experiences at different restaurants at the Hoiana Resort & Golf – a multi-billion-dollar project located south of Hội An ancient town, a UNESCO heritage site.

Oozed class and sophistication, the horizontal clubhouse building reminds me about the setting of a Hollywood movie. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

The New World Hoiana Beach Resort was a dream. From the vibrant indoor and outdoor space at The Commons where our group had the most lavish Afternoon Tea in our life; and the all-day beachfront restaurant Blend that was inspired by the bustling street markets of Asia in a casual environment; to the luxury Quang Nam House Lounge & Bar that offers soothing ambience and exquisite cocktails; and the poolside Cove Bar & Grill, where you can savour the rich flavours to captivate your palate.

Appetizer of duo fresh and crispy spring rolls. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

It's no exaggeration to say that Hoiana Resort & Golf is a foodies’ paradise. From local Vietnamese dishes to Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or European cuisine, from casual meals to fancy dining, any guest can find a place to indulge.

It’s hard for me to say which restaurant was best because each of them impressed me in different ways. However, the massive colonial-styled clubhouse at the Hoiana Shores Golf Club and the 1552 Bistro with its classic wood and leather furnishings, were a real hit. They oozed class and sophistication, the horizontal building reminded me of the setting of a Hollywood movie.

The 1552 Bistro features the regal yet distinct style of a Scottish clubhouse. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

Named after the year of establishment of the world’s oldest golf course, the Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland, the 1552 Bistro features the regal yet distinct style of a Scottish clubhouse.

When we arrived, all the staff were busy welcoming golfers who flocked for their lunch after a game.

We were seated by a long table next to windows where we could easily enjoy the great view of the golf course along the stunning beachfront while nibbling our lunch.

Flavouful 'mỳ Quảng' in the classy 1552 Bistro. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

The 1552 Bistro’s menu presents various dining options that span international, Asian and Vietnamese cuisines. To satisfy their food cravings, guests can sample traditional Hội An thick rice noodle cao lầu, Vietnamese phở, Australian rib eye steak, grilled mustard and herb-crusted lamb rack, Italian spaghetti, and much, much more.

Our set lunch started with an appetizer of fresh and crispy spring rolls, which featured a harmonious balance between vegetables and protein. With its succulent prawn and attractive fragrance, it was a real crowd-pleaser.

A plate of four main courses in tasting portions. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

For the main course, we were served mỳ Quảng, a widely popular noodle dish originating from Quảng Nam Province. The noodle dish goes together with assorted aromatic herbs and vegetables and a piece of rice cracker. Comprised of smooth noodles, chicken, roasted peanuts, spring onion, and rich yet luscious broth, this dish satisfied our appetite with its delectable flavour.

A member of our group, who was born in the province, applauded the dish as even more satisfying than any mỳ Quảng he had tried in his home town.

The lunch continued with four other main dishes, together with rice. It sounded too much for our tummy space after several sumptuous meals that we already had over the days.

However, all of us were relieved when the courses were placed on the table – a plate featured small portions of different dishes, including black pepper beef, sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, and grilled chilli prawns. All the dishes were tasty – the beef tender, savoury and peppery, the prawn refreshing, the chicken juicy and flavourful, and the wok-fried sautéed vegetable was crunchy as per my liking.

Bite-sized dessert of seasonal fresh fruit. — VNS Photo Thúy Hằng

When our last course – the dessert of seasonal fresh fruit – was presented on the table, once again, I felt thrilled to see its nice presentation. There were colourful and bite-sized cubes of dragon fruit, watermelon, cantaloupe melon, and pineapple topped with a strawberry.

Not a lavish meal, but our lunch at the 1552 Bistro was pleasant and satisfying as we could enjoy the classy ambience of a luxury golf clubhouse while our eyes were soothed by the spectacular view of a world-class golf course with the blue ocean and white waves in the distance.

From now until February 15, 2024, under the “Seasonal Wonders” campaign launched by Hoiana Resort & Golf to encompass the New Year and Tết holidays, local and international travellers are invited to unwind in style on the shores of Quảng Nam and immerse their senses in a wonderland of festive holiday celebrations.

This campaign provides customers with various appealing promotions and recreational activities such as staycation packages to save up to 60 per cent, countdown firework shows on the beachfront and more. — VNS