Our story begins with Mama Linh (Leanne), who grew up in Saigon, nurturing her younger brothers and finding joy in cooking.

 

Her kitchen was always filled with laughter and the tantalising aromas of delicious Vietnamese dishes, where the flavours of her childhood — rich broths, fresh herbs, and fragrant spices — left a lasting influence.

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After migrating to Australia as a teenager, she carried these cherished memories with her, embracing new opportunities while carrying the flavours of her childhood with her.

 

Eventually love lead her to Paris, where she met and married Papa George, together they opened their first restaurant, blending their culinary backgrounds, and sharing their love of food.

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Upon welcoming their daughter, Julie, they returned to Australia and opened Saigon Metro on George Street Haymarket in the 1990s, followed by La Mint in Darlinghurst in the 2000s, sharing the authentic tastes of Vietnam with the local community.

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