The Asian Palate – Owner Eddie Sandoval Has Created an Oasis in Buena Vista
If you find yourself relaxing or playing in the town of Buena Vista, CO, you’ll hear about the Asian Palate Thai and Sushi Restaurant. If you live here, it’s the place that goes on any visiting family agenda, and alongside any special occasion. Tucked behind a Canadian Cherry Tree that provides hints to each season’s arrival lives this true jewel of central Colorado. Owner Eddie Sandoval has created an oasis sought by locals and visitors alike.
As a first-generation American with Filipino roots, Eddie prepared for this experience by traveling extensively through Nepal, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines. A common thread throughout his travels of tasting, watching and immersion was the plethora of casual dinner tables in these countries, a focal point of everyday life, family and community. Eddie felt drawn to the dinner hour, when people go out and treat each meal like a celebratory occasion. Families and friends reveling in good food can – and should – be a ripple effect in the idea of celebrating this delicious life. Born was the vision of creating a space where people can come together and celebrate food, family and friends.
Moving to Buena Vista in 2008 after continuously being drawn to the Arkansas River Valley, Eddie accepted an offer from a longtime local and friend to open his restaurant when her café was closed at night. He used this opportunity to truly discover what Buena Vista wanted, needed and craved. More importantly, this phase gave Eddie the confidence that he wanted to fulfill a longtime dream of opening his own restaurant, and this was the place he wanted to do it. In March of 2009, Eddie purchased a historical building on East Main Street and began an extensive remodel.
The Asian Palate menu is inspired by his travels, his own family history, and his love for the community of Buena Vista. The Pan Asian cuisine consists of traditional Asian dishes, Mediterranean influences and an extensive offering of sushi options. At the Asian Palate, you’ll only find dishes that Eddie believes in. Furthermore, his conscientious sourcing allows him to support local farms and sustainable fishing practices throughout the year. When available, most of his produce comes from the Weathervane Farm located a couple of miles away. His seasonal specials connect local food options with Eddie’s culinary influences and inspired twists.
By creating a dwelling spot for his town, the Asian Palate has become much more than just a place to go and eat; here you will also find a venue that supports musicians and artists. The walls are adorned with a revolving showcase of art, and there is often live music to accompany your meal. Eddie has created a cozy environment that truly feeds all of the senses.
At the core of what the Asian Palate provides is a constantly evolving process. You will now find Eddie behind the sushi bar with his wife, Brynn, and a new muse found in a fiery and passionate toddler named Tala. A place where change is embraced, family is motivation, and the food is paramount means only good things for the folks of Buena Vista and all who visit and walk through the doors of this special place.
328 East Main Street
Buena Vista, Colorado 81211
by Anna Sitton, totally rad BV resident and owner of the Buena Viking
~MTN Town Magazine
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