G Asian Canteen — Restaurant in London

TL;DR: A true hidden gem. AMAZING food, decor and service

Stumbled accidentally upon this edgy, modest yet friendly restaurant that is nothing short of authenticity and uniqueness. The moment you stepped through the door, you could already see the meticulous planning that went behind the ironically laissez-faire neo industrial decor, reflecting the owner’s passion and sincerity which culminated in this fine humble establishment. The ingenious chalkboard wall that covered the most part of the seating area is filled with all sorts of doodles and scribbles of all languages, presumably left by previous customers. It is so cosy but at the same time, experimental. Such a genius touch.

The owner was very warm and friendly, greeted me from the open kitchen amidst preparing orders, knew that it was my first time here and immediately walked out and guided me to the tablet on the side where you order.

I’ve glanced the reviews and was astounded to find that this place still has a 5 star average with almost 250 entries, with Bahn Mi and Salad Box being the top recommendations. However, since I was here on a cold and rainy evening, I was craving for a hot bowl of pho so I decided to try that instead.

Given all the authenticity this place exudes and represents, I was expecting a bowl of traditional, clear broth pho with all sorts of herbs and condiments. Instead I was presented with a surprising twist, a concoction with dark broth, where the thinly sliced raw/rare beef was replaced by scrumptious smoked briskets. There is no beansprout, but instead deep fried tofu and okra. Instead of the traditional herby meaty broth, this is a pepper dominant beef broth. To make it even more interesting the rice noodle was also substituted by thin vermicelli. This whole thing took me completely by surprise and I mean this in the most complimentary, positive way. It is a modern twist on the classic pho all in all! Somehow it just feels right to be having this in the presence of a wide array of cute figures, trinkets and baubles scattered across the place.

I also ordered the G-Me Lemonade which was very refreshing and complimented the comparatively heavy pho very well. I wished the lemonade was made fizzy though.

To wrap it up, I had the chance to try the Belgium Chocolate and Ginger fondant, and it was probably the most delicious piece of fondant I’ve ever had in my life. I was so full from the pho yet I devoured the cake in a matter of seconds… it was made by dark chocolate and the subtle hints of ginger enhanced the intense chocolate flavour so well.

All in all, as much as I enjoy the most authentic pho, I would not hesitate to come back any day for this modern twist. I cannot wait to visit again and try their signature Bahn Mi and Salad Boxes, and to gorge myself in that heavenly...

I visited this heavenly kitchen on Wednesday night as I’ve heard such great things about the food and the chef from friends and people of the area. Just as I was informed, chefs were so nice and friendly with such great hospitality shown. We ordered the baguette, pho brisket bowl with these delicious noodles and tofu. We were informed the Brisket is made in house and dammmmmmn the flavour was just so delicious and you know it was Smokey with real taste. We also got the spring rolls and the salad bowl and they were both just so delicious. I’ve had Vietnamese food many times and this food at the Asian Canteen was one another level or superiority. We finished everything with much hast because it was so delicious and packed with incredible flavours and taste. Honestly this place is a true gem hidden in Willesden. You know it’s good when it’s hidden. The chefs were so friendly and made us feel so welcomed and their hospitality was so real and they kept asking how the food was and if we needed anything else and making sure our first visit was of that high standard of quality that they made their food with. The music playing was calm and chilled, it created a great fine dinning ambiance for a fraction of the price. I will be visiting again and again and hope you continue with your growing success. Stop going to corporate establishments where you are just another customer, come to the Asian Cantern where you are made to feel like it’s a private dinning experience and all your worries and hunger is fed away with delicious food. Good Good Food with real love. That’s passion of the taste right there! Thank you for an...

Residing nearby, my girlfriend and I were intrigued by the online reviews, prompting us to pay a visit last Saturday. What unfolded became an unforgettable food experience in London.

Our choice was the crushed basil, chilli, and ginger cocktail, a delightful concoction that stands among the finest cocktails I've ever tasted– my partner wholeheartedly agreed.

Every culinary selection we indulged in was a revelation. Commencing with the plantain chips and okra, their freshness and vibrant colours set a splendid tone for the meal. Our shared main course comprised two exquisite Bánh mì sandwiches that transported us back to Vietnam. The impeccably cooked beef brisket, thoughtfully chosen fillings, and the luxuriously rich sauce harmonized into a symphony of flavours that left us thoroughly content.

Our good fortune extended to sampling three distinct bao buns: beef brisket, cod, and aubergine. Each exemplified flawless preparation and impeccable presentation. The cod bao bun ingeniously reimagined the concept of fish & chips. Though tempted by the aubergine bao bun, my appetite reached its limit.

A highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Gill, the owner and chef. His warm hospitality made us feel truly welcome, and he regaled us with insights into his in-house creations and a glimpse into his culinary journey. Gill's presence epitomizes the excellence of this establishment and the exceptional cuisine he crafts. Anticipating many return visits, we are elated to have such a culinary gem in our local vicinity.

I hope to see this restaurant thrive in the future and bring in...