How did you first become interested in cooking?
My parents worked in restaurants when I was a young child. I always went to work with them, and saw food being prepped, food being served, food being eaten. So I was always surrounded by that environment. And also, late-night Food Network shows. I like the old-school “Iron Chef,” which I used to watch a lot.
How did it inspire you?
My brother and I would set up our own “Iron Chef” competitions. We’d get one ingredient and would have our own battle. One time, we got the cheapest cut of steak we could find—at that age (7), you don’t know the difference between cuts of steak. We would basically throw in every seasoning we could find. My brother’s girlfriend, who is now his wife, was the judge. It was fun.
Orlando’s own Sean “Sonny” Nguyen has been nominated for a James Beard Award. His origin story is a fun one.
When did you realize cooking was something you could make a career out of?
I think my natural compass always led me to the culinary industry. When I was 5, I wrote a business plan to sell ramen noodles out of my garage. It was called “Sean’s Famous Noodles.” So it’s kind of crazy that 20-something years later, I’ve actually opened my own noodle shop. My parents still have the letter to this day.
What, to you, makes a great dish?
A dish that hits all parts of my palate. A balance of flavors between sweet, salty, spicy and sour.
Editor’s Note: Nguyen operates three DOMU locations and five additional dining concepts in Florida.
How does the James Beard nomination (for DOMU) validate your work?
James Beard is something that’s a lifetime achievement for most people, myself as well. I honestly wasn’t sure it’s something that I would ever achieve in my career. When I found out, it was a little bit unbelievable. It means a lot to me. I’ve dedicated my life to this. I just continue to work every day like my life depends on it.
What advice would you give to someone hesitant to try a new flavor or new dish?
There’s really nothing to lose. You either like it or you don’t. But at least if you try it, and you do like it, now you know.
Small Bites
Coffee or tea? Tea
Cake or pie? Cake
Sweet or savory brunch? Sweet
Appetizer or dessert? Dessert
Beer, wine or cocktail? Light beer
Street eats or sit-down dinner? Sit-down dinner
Sushi or ramen? Sushi
Steak or seafood? Steak
Favorite guilty indulgence? Oreos
Domu (original)
Inside East End Market
3201 Corrine Dr., Ste 100
Orlando, FL
407-239-3854
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