What an amazing transformation! Touting itself as an espresso bar and bistro, it serves both traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes, a smattering of French, plus a blend of the two. It spans two floors and the upstairs area is huge.
The artwork is by Emma Hack, a local artist. The gorgeous wall mural combines body paint, photography and a painted background. I was told on a Friday or Saturday the kitchen will be open until at least 11pm.
I was in the mood for a cocktail when I arrived so ordered the Hanoi Hannah — mint, coconut sugar, fresh lychee, hibiscus bitter and bourbon — good stuff — it went down way to easily — I could have had another but alas, I had to drive home later. After this we had the S. Pannell pinot grigio — a bottle, followed by another bottle.
As for the food, check out the photos below. I enjoyed it all and am craving it all over again! One of my dining partners is half Vietnamese and she was pleased with the food — a good gauge I think. And the crispy pork that you wrap in lettuce leaves with vermicelli and fresh herbs — YUM!
Shaking beef is usually cut thinly or cubed and then cooked but Nic cooks a whole steak then slices it quick thickly. Whatever — I liked it! It was very attentive service — Clare and Van did a great job at looking after us. They were eager to please and able to answer any question I threw at them. Muc Sua Chien Gion — Crispy fried baby squid, smoked chilli, kaffir lime.
