2024-03-03
Dive into the delicacies of Vietnam without leaving New York City. This article reviews five local Vietnamese restaurants, detailing the highs and lows of each to guide your next authentic dining experience.
Banhmigos Park Place is a true gamble for the Vietnamese cuisine enthusiast in New York. When it's good, it is extraordinarily so, with banh mi that'll crown your day and zest-filled lemonade that's the talk of the town. Affordable delights flow from $10 to $20, making it a favorite for dinner on a dime. However, caution is advised as there have been whispers of less pleasant experiences, like food poisoning from a certain short rib pho that's both overly salty and underwhelming. The reviews are polarizing; some warn only to recommend to one's worst enemy, others find it a treasure. Would I take my chances on Banhmigos again? Only if feeling adventurous, with hopes pinned on the 'flip-of-the-coin' outcomes.
Location: 636 Park Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11238
At the heart of 2nd Ave lies Vietnaam, a snug beacon of Vietnamese fare, casting a modern glance at time-tested recipes. The brisket pho is noteworthy—a true comfort in a bowl, marrying flavor with frugality. For those in a hurry, the banh mi satisfies with both speed and substance. The papaya salad, however, might not hit the mark for every diner. Nevertheless, the service retains unmistakable warmth whether the food is to stay or to go. Vietnaam stands as a dependable choice for those seeking a no-fuss, wallet-friendly lunch that doesn't skimp on taste. As for a return visit? It's a certainty, especially for another round of their pho and banh mi.
Location: 1700 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128
Venture down Smith Street, and Hanco's opens its doors to an unpretentious Vietnamese experience that's well worth the wander. The banh mi is exceptional, achieving an ideal balance of crunch and tenderness, paired with electrifying pickles and succulent pork. Although it may fall short for the pho purists, the summer rolls are a definitive, labour-free midday temptation. Despite occasional inconsistencies in service, Hanco's presents a homemade charm that values quality. Within a price range of $10 to $30, it's an unassuming spot that delivers genuine Vietnamese flavors with a personal touch. Eager for another banh mi encounter, a repeat visit is already on the cards.
Location: 134 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Banh Mi Cafe is a Brooklyn hideaway on Nostrand Ave, offering a foray into Vietnamese cuisine. The spotlight here is on their banh mi sandwiches, occasionally light on the greens but easily perfected with a polite suggestion. Meanwhile, their pho simmers with legitimacy, a true friend on the brisk New York streets, though their iced coffee may stir some debate. The vermicelli salad and lauded peanut sauce will capture your palate with undeniable vitality. The cafe has garnered a following that rivals larger establishments, all thanks to its straightforward and neighborhood-aligned ambience, and service that's both nimble and kind. Whether for a heartwarming lunch or dinner, this is your go-to spot for an affordable meal that's rich in flavor and authenticity. My verdict? A definitive 'yes' for a much welcomed pho and banh mi retreat.
Location: 689 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Head over to Hell's Kitchen where Cha Pa's Noodles and Grill awaits with a promise of 'the best pho ever' — a claim many affirm. Traditionalists might critique the bun bo hue for lacking depth, but the pho triumphs, attracting diners in droves. Complement fast service and welcoming grins with a bowl of their celebrated soup, all priced modestly at $10-$20 per person. While less expansive and more intimate than other venues, the snug space invites you to savor each bite amidst diligent regulars. Minor issues like the occasional red dye from beef slices cannot overshadow the warmth of the Vietnamese coffee or the honest flavors featured on their menu. In doubt about where to eat in Hell's Kitchen? Cha Pa's is a must-visit for heartwarming food that speaks of its heritage with every spoonful.
Location: 314 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
