April Lilies: Gia x Fumee

A Story of Easter Lilies and Hospitality

April Lilies: A Story of Easter Lilies and Hospitality

Hanoi in April is so gentle, with the pure white of Easter lilies drifting through the streets. This is also the time when Gia opens its doors to welcome our friends from Fumée (Shenzhen) for a long-awaited reunion.

Early Morning Markets and Memories on a Motorbike

Before stepping into the kitchen together, Chef Sam Tran took Chef Reina Chen through the small alleys of Hanoi. For Sam, being a host is not just about cooking; it is about taking her fellow chef to touch the freshest vegetables and feel the authentic rhythm of city life. Chef Reina shared that sitting on the back of a motorbike, riding through the streets, and breathing in the early morning market air was her favorite memory, a truly genuine look into the soul of Hanoi.

Two Like-Minded Souls: Chef Sam Tran and Chef Reina Chen

The connection behind "April Lilies" comes from two deeply passionate women:

Chef Sam Tran (Gia, Hanoi):

As the Head Chef and Co-founder, she has spent years developing contemporary Vietnamese cuisine rooted in memories, seasonality, and a quiet precision.

Under her leadership, Gia has become a pioneer, bringing Vietnamese culinary art to the global stage.

• Chef Reina Chen (Fumée, Shenzhen):

  Once an opera singer, Reina brings her artistic soul into the kitchen, turning every dining experience into a beautifully crafted performance. Fumée is famous for its focus on the purity of ingredients and masterfully crafted sauces.

  Reina’s care and passion are the strongest threads connecting her with Sam Tran. This gathering is also a beautiful reunion between two premium ingredient ambassadors: Lambassador (Sam Tran) and Aussie Beef Mate (Reina Chen)

When Cultures Truly Listen to Each Other

The journey of "April Lilies" leaves behind a clear moment of cultural understanding. In April Lilies, the dining table becomes a gentle space where Vietnamese and Chinese culinary philosophies sit naturally side by side.

Each culture tells its own story through careful techniques and heartfelt hospitality. The true value of the meal lies in the harmony of two souls and the moments we genuinely become one. Instead of standing apart, Gia and Fumée chose to reflect and learn from each other, letting the finest traits of our companion become our own inspiration. It is this seamless, emotional connection that weaves a smooth flow of flavors, allowing guests to fully feel the deep respect and warmth of both chefs.

For Gia, this is more than just a reunion. It is a beautiful milestone showing Hanoi’s growing presence as a destination where soulful culinary dialogues are born, leaving an echo that lingers long after.

About Gia

Located in the heart of Hanoi, Gia is a fine dining restaurant honored with 1 MICHELIN Star by the MICHELIN Guide Vietnam. Under the leadership of Chef Sam Tran, Gia tells the story of Vietnamese cuisine through seasonal menus, where tradition is reimagined with a contemporary creative spirit. Each dish is a delicate slice of Vietnamese culture—celebrating local ingredients, the meticulous craftsmanship of the kitchen, and the flavors of Hanoi experienced through all five senses.

Gia is honored to be featured in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (Ranked 51–100) and The Best Chef Awards, affirming its pioneering position for Vietnamese cuisine on the international stage.

→ Discover more about Gia: gia-hanoi.com/home