Nhan Nguyen, co-owner & head chef of award-winning Suum Vietnamese Kitchen, shares his thoughts on food, family & Vietnamese New Year
Q. Hello! What does the new year, “Tet”, mean to you?
“Tet it the biggest celebration of the year. It centres around family, community and paying respects to ancestors and roots. Everyone returns home, if they can, celebrating for a week with prayers for health, safety, and prosperity. Traditions include giving lucky money to elders and children for blessings and offering food to ancestors with a 10-course meal (e.g. red sticky rice, stir-fried seasonal greens squid, chicken vermicelli mushroom soup, crispy spring rolls, lotus salad). For us, Tet is a time of gratitude, reflection, and resetting life’s purpose. It’s vital for me to pass on this beautiful tradition to my boys, teaching them its meaning and encouraging them to carry it forward.”
Q. Where do you live?
“My family and I have lived in Marlow Bottom for three years. As father to two boys (aged seven and 10) life is always busy, but I love the fast pace and the constant activity. It’s a fantastic place to raise kids, with a great sense of community. I love to play sports when I can and I’m part of Danesfield Dads Football Club. I love the strong sense of community here – it’s supportive, safe, and family-orientated, surrounded by beautiful scenery and thriving!”
Q. What are you favourite shops?
“My wife’s favourites include Marlow Green (for fresh produce), the Meat Hook (for meat!), and Twenty Three Living for gifts. She loves food shopping days and cooking for the family.”
Q. How about local restaurants?
“I’m a big fan of Indian cuisine; Atul Kochhar’s Vaasu in Marlow is a favourite. Atul has changed the way people perceive and experience Indian food in the UK, which is exactly what I’m aiming to achieve with Vietnamese cuisine. My kids love the burgers at The Butcher’s Tap (as do we!). I enjoy the vibe and food at The Oarsman and Sunday roasts at The Coach.”
Q. Your restaurant is so loved! What was it like opening Suum?
“Opening Suum came with countless challenges, sleepless nights, and tough times. Looking back, I’m grateful for the journey; it’s been a huge period of personal growth and development. I’ve met so many people, each leaving me with lessons and impacts I carry forward. What drives me most is seeing customers enjoy our food, especially those trying Vietnamese cuisine for the first time. Their enjoyment and feedback motivates me to keep improving and give my best.”
Q. What’s your favourite dish on the menu?
“I’m a snacker, so the Saigon Sizzling Pancakes! I love the crunchy outer layer, the freshness of bean sprouts, the savoury combination of pork and prawns, and the bold flavours from the herbs and chilli fish sauce. It’s so light and delicious, I could munch on it all day.”
Q. What highlights are you looking forward to?
“This year is a transformational one for me and for Suum. As an introvert, I’ve mainly run Suum through word-of-mouth, but I’m stepping out more. I’m excited to connect with local businesses and the wider community, showcasing our cuisine to Marlow and beyond.”
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