AN: Southeast Asian Kitchen — Restaurant in Arlington

5 Stars — Absolute Perfection in a Bowl 🥹

I first visited this place when it had just opened and had a great chat with the owner. She mentioned they’d eventually be available on Uber Eats, and I’ve been patiently waiting ever since — especially since I live far away. Now that I can finally order, I’m beyond thrilled. This place has officially become my #1 carryout choice, and honestly, it deserves all the praise💯

As someone who loves food, is super picky, and knows how to cook well, I don’t say this lightly: these are the best elevated, healthy, flavorful bowls I’ve ever had. The care they put into each ingredient is obvious.

Let’s talk protein 🐖 — My personal favorites are the pork belly, brisket, and meatball — all incredibly well-prepared. The pork belly is incredibly tender and rich without being greasy (possibly sous vide?). The brisket is deeply savory and perfectly cooked. And the meatball? (probably one of the best meatballs I’ve ever had).

Then greens and veggies 🥗 — They’re layered beautifully, with a mix of textures and flavors: fresh greens, roasted carrots / potatoes, creamy eggplant, pickled elements, crunchy snap peas, and crispy fried onions or shallots. Every bite gives you contrast, balance, and satisfaction.

The flavor combinations are thoughtful and bold, and the textures are spot-on — nothing soggy, nothing bland. It truly feels like every component was designed to create the most satisfying bowl possible. Every bite makes me feel like I’m in food heaven, and every time I finish one, I already want to order again 🩵

If you’re looking for something nourishing, exciting, and delicious — this place is it!!! Undeniably the best elevated bowl experience I’ve...

AN: Serenely SE Asian delivers beautifully balanced flavors in a calm and elegant setting. The Chipotle-style format lets you customize your bowl or plate as you move down the line, but the flavors and presentation feel far more refined and thoughtfully crafted.

I tried the tamarind chicken and the coconut shrimp, and both impressed in different ways. The tamarind chicken was tender and glazed with a sticky, tangy sauce that struck the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Each bite was rich and vibrant without feeling heavy.

The coconut shrimp was a true standout. The shrimp were cooked to perfection and served in a luscious, aromatic coconut sauce that was both comforting and complex. The coconut flavor enhanced the shrimp without overwhelming them.

I also had the pleasure of meeting Tuyet Nhi Le, who was incredibly kind and accommodating. It’s clear she cares deeply about both the food and the overall experience. Service throughout was friendly and efficient, making the entire visit enjoyable from start to finish.

The only minor downside was the seating. You can head upstairs, but the seats by the window aren’t the most comfortable. Still, this is exactly the kind of place where you leave already planning...

This is your Chipotle-style build-your-own-bowl place, but with healthier options and in Southeast Asian flavors. The braised beef I got for protein was out of this world. I'd come back just for that. I also got the crispy pork belly. My advice for that is not to go when they are about to close. It was no longer crispy. It must taste great when it's fresh out of the oven. If you don't want to build your own, they also have pre-selected bowls. The good jars for dessert are also healthy jars with collagen. I had to try it once, but I might not again because they were $9.50 a jar!

The prices definitely will tell you that you're in Arlington if finding parking hasn't already. There's equally good Roll Play on the second floor of the same building. The staff was friendly and helpful. There aren't many places to sit on the first floor, but a cute little corner. However, the whole second floor has plenty of seats and nice views.

I love the food, the interior design, and the views. I don't love the location and parking. Yet, I'd drive to Arlington for another bowl...