A Journey of Survival
Family, and Flavor
"From the rough seas to the American dream."
From the Rough Seas to the American Dream
The story of AA Garden Fusion did not begin in a professional kitchen. It began on the perilous open ocean, in the heart of a man fleeing Vietnam in search of freedom. Our patriarch, Sunny, arrived in America as a refugee. He carried no wealth, only the clothes on his back and a deep, aching longing for the flavors of the home he left behind.
Like many who chase the American Dream, Sunny believed that you have to start somewhere.
From Dishwasher to Head Chef
Landing in Minnesota, Sunny took the only job he could find: a dishwasher. But while his hands scrubbed plates, his eyes were studying the line, and his mind was sharpening his culinary instincts.
Through sheer grit and an undeniable talent for flavor, he worked his way up—from dishwasher to caterer, to sous chef, and eventually to Head Chef.
In an incredible feat of determination, he bought out that very business within just four years. He had proven that in this country, hard work truly pays off.
Where Nails Met Noodles
Years later, the family moved to the sunny shores of New Smyrna Beach to open AA Nails and Spa. Yet, the chef in Sunny never slept. Missing the warmth of family meals in Vietnam, he began cooking homemade dishes to treat his spa clients. It was a gesture of pure hospitality—a way to say "thank you" with the language of food.
The reaction was immediate and overwhelming. Clients weren't just returning for manicures; they were coming back for the taste of Sunny's cooking. They fell in love with the authenticity, the freshness, and the soul in every bite.
That was the spark. The family realized they had a mission: to create a space where everyone could enjoy these flavors properly.
Tradition Meets Innovation
In 2014, AA Garden Fusion was born. We wanted to build a sanctuary for two types of longing: the longing of fellow Vietnamese expatriates missing a true "taste of home," and the longing of our American friends for something excitingly fresh.
Today, under the watchful eyes of Sunny and his daughter, Neon Ngo, we serve a menu that bridges generations.
For the Traditionalist
We offer dishes made entirely from scratch using age-old family recipes, like our handmade Spring Rolls and our signature Vietnamese Pho—a broth simmered for hours to heal the soul.
For the Adventurer
We introduce an exotic twist with our Asian Fusion specialties. From Thai, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese influences to our famous Poke Tacos topped with creamy guacamole and cilantro yogurt sauce, there is something exciting for every palette.
More Than a Restaurant – It's Family
But for us, the dream isn't just about business; it's about people. When you step into AA Garden Fusion, you are not just a customer; you are a guest in our family's dining room.
This philosophy extends to our team. As our chef Mark Davis puts it, "It is such a blessing to work alongside very professional, dedicated owners who treat even the newest guy here like a member of the family."
Whether it's our long-time staff member Teri Derma or the newest hire, we pour love into our work, and we believe you can taste that love in our food.
Come for the story, stay for the food.
Welcome to AA Garden Fusion.
Moments & Atmosphere
