Craving the vibrant, aromatic, and utterly satisfying flavors of Vietnam? Look no further than the bustling streets of Soho, London. While this iconic neighborhood is renowned for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and diverse culinary scene, it also holds a treasure trove of authentic Vietnamese restaurants, ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of Southeast Asia. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to uncovering the best Vietnamese food Soho has to offer, from steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi and everything in between. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Why Soho for Vietnamese Cuisine?
Soho, with its dynamic energy and reputation as a melting pot of cultures, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you’re thinking about Vietnamese cuisine. Many automatically look towards areas with larger Vietnamese communities, like Shoreditch or even further afield, for that authentic experience. However, Soho’s central location and its thriving restaurant scene has attracted a collection of excellent Vietnamese eateries. These establishments add another layer of diversity to Soho’s culinary landscape, offering a welcome respite from the usual Italian and French fare that often dominate the area. The accessibility and relatively affordable price point of Vietnamese food also makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike.
Soho’s Vietnamese Restaurant Gems: Where to Find Your Flavor
Navigating the maze of restaurants in Soho can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a mission to find the perfect bowl of pho or the crispiest spring roll. To simplify your search, here are three standout Vietnamese restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional flavors and authentic experiences:
Cay Tre: A Modern Take on Traditional Flavors
Cay Tre is a popular destination among those seeking Vietnamese food Soho. Nestled on Dean Street, Cay Tre offers a contemporary take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The interior is stylish and inviting, with a lively atmosphere that makes it perfect for a casual lunch or a fun dinner with friends. Their menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of classic Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.
One of their standout dishes is the Bun Cha Hanoi, a delectable combination of grilled pork patties, vermicelli noodles, and a flavorful dipping sauce. The pork is perfectly charred and seasoned, and the noodles are light and refreshing. Another must-try is the Pho Bo, their signature beef noodle soup. The broth is rich and aromatic, simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor. The beef is tender and the noodles are perfectly cooked. They also have plenty of vegetarian options, such as their crispy vegetable spring rolls or their tofu and vegetable curry.
Cay Tre is priced in the mid-range, making it a great option for those looking for quality Vietnamese food Soho without breaking the bank. They also offer a selection of Vietnamese beers and cocktails to complement your meal. They have a few tables outside, and they are popular for groups so booking is always recommended.
*Address: 303-305 Old St, London EC1V 9QR*
Pho & Bun: Banh Mi Heaven in the Heart of Soho
If you’re craving a delicious Banh Mi, then Pho & Bun is the place to be. Located on Shaftesbury Avenue, this restaurant specializes in banh mi, the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, and pho, the soul-warming noodle soup. The ambiance is casual and relaxed, with a focus on quick and efficient service, perfect for a lunchtime craving or a grab-and-go meal.
Their banh mi are legendary, made with freshly baked baguettes and filled with a variety of flavorful ingredients. The classic Banh Mi Thit is a must-try, featuring grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, coriander, and chili. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the fillings are perfectly balanced and flavorful. They also offer vegetarian options, such as their tofu banh mi or their mushroom banh mi.
Their pho is equally impressive, with a rich and aromatic broth that is simmered for hours. The Pho Ga, their chicken noodle soup, is a comforting and flavorful option. The chicken is tender and the noodles are perfectly cooked. Pho & Bun is an affordable option for Vietnamese food Soho and is a popular spot for a quick and tasty meal. They have limited seating but are perfect for takeaways!
*Address: 76 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 6NA*
Ngon Ngon: A Taste of Vietnam’s Culinary Heritage
Ngon Ngon provides a more traditional and homely experience of vietnamese food Soho. Tucked away on Old Compton Street, Ngon Ngon offers a more authentic and traditional Vietnamese dining experience. The decor is simple and unpretentious, with a focus on showcasing the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant is family-run, and the staff are friendly and welcoming.
Their menu features a wide array of classic Vietnamese dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. The Goi Cuon, their fresh spring rolls, are a must-try, filled with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, pork, and fresh herbs. The dipping sauce is flavorful and adds the perfect touch of sweetness and spice. Another popular dish is the Com Tam, broken rice with grilled pork chop, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg. The pork chop is juicy and flavorful, and the broken rice is a unique and satisfying accompaniment.
Ngon Ngon is slightly more expensive than the other two restaurants, but the quality of the food and the authentic dining experience make it well worth the price. It is a quieter, more intimate option amongst the bustle of Soho, which can be very valuable.
*Address: 19 Romilly St, London W1D 5AF*
Honorable Mentions:
While the restaurants listed above are our top picks, other establishments in Soho also deserve a mention for their contribution to the Vietnamese food Soho scene. Banh Mi Bay, a small chain, offers a decent selection of banh mi. Also, many of the pan-Asian restaurants in the area will have Vietnamese dishes such as pho or summer rolls.
Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes: A Culinary Exploration
Beyond specific restaurants, understanding the essential dishes that define Vietnamese cuisine is key to fully appreciating the flavors of Soho. Here’s a breakdown of some must-try dishes:
Pho: The Soul of Vietnamese Cuisine
Pho, pronounced “fuh,” is perhaps the most iconic Vietnamese dish, a steaming bowl of noodle soup that is both comforting and flavorful. The broth, simmered for hours with beef bones, spices, and herbs, is the foundation of this dish. Rice noodles, tender slices of beef or chicken, and a generous topping of fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, and mint complete the experience. A squeeze of lime and a dash of chili sauce add a final burst of flavor.
Banh Mi: A Culinary Fusion
The banh mi is a testament to the culinary fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine. A crispy baguette, filled with a variety of savory ingredients, including pate, grilled meats (often pork), pickled vegetables (carrots and daikon), cilantro, and chili, makes for a truly satisfying sandwich. The combination of textures and flavors – crispy bread, savory meats, tangy vegetables, and aromatic herbs – is simply irresistible.
Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls): A Refreshing Delight
Goi Cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls, are a light and refreshing alternative to their fried counterparts. These translucent rolls are filled with vermicelli noodles, shrimp or pork, fresh herbs, and vegetables, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. They are typically served with a peanut dipping sauce that adds a touch of sweetness and richness.
Bun Cha: Hanoi’s Culinary Gem
Originating from Hanoi, Bun Cha is a delicious dish featuring grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. The pork is typically marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then grilled to perfection. The noodles are light and refreshing, and the herbs add a vibrant touch.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Vietnamese Food
To truly savor the flavors of Vietnamese food Soho, keep these tips in mind:
* Master the Sauces: Fish sauce (nuoc mam), sriracha, and hoisin sauce are common condiments in Vietnamese cuisine. Experiment with different combinations to find your preferred flavor profile. A little fish sauce can go a long way, adding a depth of umami to your dish.
* Embrace Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for recommendations from the restaurant staff. They are often the best source of information about the menu and can guide you towards hidden gems.
* Appreciate the Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil are an integral part of Vietnamese cuisine. Don’t be shy about adding them generously to your dishes. They add a burst of freshness and aroma that elevates the flavors to another level.
* Don’t be afraid to slurp: Many vietnamese dishes, particularly pho and bun cha, are served with broth. It is perfectly acceptable, and even encouraged, to slurp the broth from your bowl. It’s considered a sign of enjoyment and appreciation.
Conclusion: A Vietnamese Food Soho Adventure Awaits
Vietnamese food in Soho is a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered. From modern interpretations to traditional classics, the diverse restaurants in this vibrant neighborhood offer a taste of Vietnam that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned pho aficionado or a banh mi beginner, Soho has something to satisfy your Vietnamese food desires. So, ditch the usual suspects and embark on a culinary journey through the aromatic and flavorful world of Vietnamese cuisine in Soho. Grab your chopsticks, explore the recommended restaurants, and discover your own personal favorites. Prepare to be amazed by the authentic flavors and the warm hospitality that awaits you in the heart of London. You will find that Vietnames food Soho is more accessible and diverse than you imagined.
