Pho and banh mi are always the first items that come to mind when thinking of Vietnamese cuisine. But there are so many more options out there to choose from. To get your fill of authentic Vietnamese meals that include everything from barbecue skewers to unique street food, head to these following six restaurants.
Lang Nuong Vietnam
Hailed as Singapore’s first authentic Vietnamese BBQ restaurant, Lang Nuong Vietnam along Foch Road is the locale for an intimate marinated meat and seafood experience. It does aim to emulate the atmosphere of the busy Vietnamese streets, so expect a no-frills but delicious dining affair here. Just witness and grill the meats on the charcoal barbecue for yourself; it’s sure to make for a unique meal, especially if it’s your first time at the joint.
La Saigon
Not to be confused with Little Saigon, La Saigon which is located in Alexandra Central Mall is a homely spot for comforting Vietnamese cuisine. Try the signature Beef Pho as well as the Banh Mi Ga; the former features grass-fed New Zealand ribeye and a hearty broth, while the latter sees grilled lemongrass chicken stuffed into a homemade sourdough baguette.
Little Saigon
There’s no place better to sip on cocktails and savour modern Vietnamese-style cuisine by the riverside on Clarke Quay than at Little Saigon. Decked out with classic Vietnamese lanterns, the space offers a lively ambience for the enjoyment of street dishes including spring rolls, pork skewers, fruit and chicken salads, and fried frog legs.
Mrs Pho
A tribute to Vietnamese mothers, grandmothers, and aunts who are affectionately known as the best cooks in the family, Mrs Pho ensures that no one leaves their outlets on an empty stomach. Now boasting three branches in Singapore including Beach Road, Vivocity and Rangoon Road, head to the latter for seafood dishes, as the others cater to street-style meals. Either way, you’ll receive a traditional Vietnamese dining experience at Mrs Pho.
Nam Nam
En route to becoming a more eco-friendly franchise, Nam Nam is a chain restaurant in Asia boasting no MSG-added dishes. What you’ll always get here are wallet-friendly options; lunch sets are also available on weekdays so you have the choice of completing your meal with appetisers as well as Vietnamese coffee beverages too.
Red Sparrow
The first Vietnamese restaurant in Singapore to be officially endorsed and recognised by Vietnam, Red Sparrow serves authentic eats right in the heart of Dempsey Hill. In addition to the usual pho and spring rolls, you’ll also want to order Bo La Lot (grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf), as well as popular street snack Banh Xeo (a crispy stuffed rice pancake).
