Yesterday afternoon, I finally met with Joan of Artist Chef.  Joan’s blog is one of my favorites because I get to try some of her yummy recipes.

She’s the weekend chef in Geisha along Pasteur St. in District 1 and no, they don’t serve Japanese food but is actually a fusion of Western dishes.

The cafe is perched on the upper 2 floors so it had an interesting view of the street —

and the pigeons who have found a home by the tree right outside the shop.

We even saw a pigeon nesting on one of Geisha’s pots.

The cafe is cozy and inviting — perfect for a quiet afternoon chat or if you just want to relax and read a book.

The lower dining area is equally charming and while the upper dining area has this more relaxed atmosphere, this one feels like it’s buzzing with energy.

Sam felt right at home.

We had the Lettuce-Grape Calamari and the Pesto Creme Fetuccine with Bacon Strips — which are perfectly delicious and is a different story altogether. 😀

We checked out the shop downstairs too and there were so many lovely clothes!  Wish I were sexy enough for ’em.

It was terrific chatting with Joan and meeting the owner of Geisha as well, Helen Holani.  I’m so huge next to this lovely girls!  Helen is Filipina-Australian. 😉

Joan will be gone for a few months as she studies culinary art in Italy and before she says her farewell to Saigon, she’ll be holding her 3rd Off The Menu Lunch Buffet this coming Sunday (her 2nd to the last before her great adventure).

Drop by this Sunday and see what the Artist Chef has whipped out!