I don't know if it's the fresh ingredients and minimal cooking, the philosophical and pragmatical aspects of the local cooking culture, or the recent historical influence of French cuisine, but for some reason good Vietnamese food is hard to come by.
From China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bali, to Europe and the US, outside of Vietnam (with the weird exception of Melbourne and Sydney) I've always had trouble finding Vietnamese restaurants, let alone a really good OG Pho.
For my money, Saigon Recipe is the best in Bangkok.
The deep fried rice paper spring rolls are chunky and delicious. The pho broth is piquant and light and perfectly spiced, the beef is just this side of alive and left to cook slowly as you eat. The noodles are a perfect balance of chewy and soft and the plentiful accoutrements ('pho-accoutrements') - i.e. the bean shoots, chili, lime, cilantro, etc. - are given a local assist by the peppery Thai Basil.
Diving deeper, the menu is serious business and covers all the classics and more. The sweet and sour soup is amazing. It's hard to make a bad Vietnamese Coffee and here it doesn't disappoint. The Banh Mi, while maybe not as good as the Netflix-famous Michelin-star roadside stall in HCMC, comes in pretty close.
And that, if anything, is just another testament to the tricky and persnickety balance of Vietnamese cuisine. But if you've got that particular itch, Saigon Recipe will definitely scratch...
Read moreSaigon Recipe is an exceptional destination for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Bangkok. Nestled in a central and convenient location, this restaurant offers a truly immersive dining experience. The decor is thoughtfully designed, transporting you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with its charming and authentic atmosphere.
The menu is a culinary delight, with every dish crafted to perfection. From the rich, aromatic flavors of the pho to the refreshing crunch of the fresh spring rolls, every bite feels like a journey through Vietnam. Their Vietnamese coffee is a highlight—not to be missed—offering a robust and satisfying taste that complements the meal beautifully.
Saigon Recipe is not only a feast for the palate but also a hassle-free destination, thanks to the ample parking available for guests. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or a special dinner, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for anyone craving a slice of...
Read moreI had high hopes that this place was going to be good. I ordered the bun ho hue lunch set that was on the lighter side of flavor but still pretty good. The fresh spring roll and fried rolls were delicious. However, I ordered the banh mi with “spicy lemongrass chicken and chicken pate.” In the picture in their menu, you can clearly see slices of grilled? chicken in the sandwich. But what I got were circular fried chicken? When I asked the waitress about the sandwich, she originally said that those are grilled chicken slices. Then when I asked to see the menu and showed how the food I got did not look nearly the same as in the picture, she started backtracking her words. Then she said the chef had changed the item and that the picture on the menu was taken a while back ago. Well, if you changed the dish where it’s no longer the same as the original, it’s time you updated the picture so customers don’t get disappointed. I really wanted to like this...
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