This is one of the more fun and elegant Chinese outdoor banquet events that I’ve enjoyed in DC for several years. It’s a diplomatic function held yearly in Twin Oaks, the historic residence of the Taiwan equivalent of the ambassador.
Twin Oaks was home to nine Chinese ambassadors to the U.S. from 1937 to 1979 when the U.S. had diplomatic ties with the Republic of China on Taiwan. Since normalization of ties with Beijing, Twin Oaks has been the residence of the representative of Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office.
The 18-acre estate, set among trees in Cleveland Park, DC, is listed as a historic site and beautiful . They said the grounds have their own herd of deer.
This party on Thursday was held in observance of Taiwan’s National Day which is on October 10. This year is their 105th anniversary.
Every year, they host a great event under giant tents and with outdoor seating. That evening about 1000 people attended and were feted with drink and plenty of food. TECRO used the occasion to highlight Taiwan economy, tourism and cuisine.
There was a generous array of American favorite foods as well as Chinese–dumplings, noodles and braised pork in steamed buns. This year I noticed the Danzi Noodles stand, pictured below.
I didn’t try the Danzi noodles but had a chance to ask one of the chefs at work which restaurant he was from. Always good to find out where diplomats think their most authentic food comes from. Turns out he’s the Twin Oaks Chef, been there for more than 30 years. Here he is:
But there was also a banquet spread of appetizers, shellfish, roast beef, turkey and ham, desserts and other treats.
Check out this whole leg of beef. It was tasty. There was another leg at a different serving table.
Here are more pictures I took:
