Vietnam Restaurant: Good morning Philadelphia
Chinatown’s Vietnam Restaurant is home to huge portions, budget-friendly food, and a tropical cocktail list potent enough to revive memories of a blacked-out Spring Break trip to the Bahamas.
The handsome mod-Asian décor rises high above the institutional look employed at so many other Chinatown eateries, especially in its clubby lounge, Bar Saigon, where patrons sip drinks while waiting for open tables. Here, low ottomans, silky curtains and a polished wooden bar skillfully recreate a French colonial haunt, while bartenders shake lemongrass martinis for the crowd.
In the dining room, convivial servers explain the large laminated menu to the uninitiated, while tables of hungry folks chow down on overflowing BBQ platters and steaming bowls of Pho Tai. One order of crispy spring rolls, a delightful blend of ground pork, onions and mushrooms fried to perfection, could easily serve a table of four. Though there are literally dozens of delicious entrées to choose from, the standouts are those served in claypots, such as the crispy duck seasoned with five spices and presented with a chili pineapple dipping sauce.
Although the crowd is a mixed bunch – from frenetic families feeding their chatty toddlers to twentysomethings on first dates, those preparing for a wild night out on the town need look no further than Vietnam’s Flaming Volcano. This trough-sized drink filled with Bacardi 151 and fruit juice is delivered to the table on fire. Those less inclined towards fruity libations or showstopping theatrics can choose a beverage from the well-priced beer and sake list, like bottles of “33” imported from (where else?) Vietnam. However, wine snobs should be wary of the vino – while affordable, their list offers up some suburban housewife selections par excellence such as Sutter Home White Zinfandel that are best left for backyard barbeques or sorority formals.
Overall, Vietnam is an amazing value with great food, friendly service and a pleasant atmosphere for an unbelievably low price. It’s hard to believe a place this appealing hasn’t been overrun with tourists and locals, but the Chinatown location has kept the restaurant something of a secret for those who aren’t as adventurous. Dinner for two including umbrella drinks, appetizers and entrees runs about $50.
Extras: Ask Tom to create his own signature drink for you – you won’t be disappointed. OCD patrons will appreciate Vietnam’s uber-clean bathrooms, a pleasant departure from most restaurant restrooms. Kids will love the fun beverages like the Rainbow Ice, Fruit Shake and Sour Sop Tart.
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Vietnam Restaurant: Good morning Philadelphia
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