Nam Giao Restaurant & Bakery — Restaurant in Houston

I did not see the episode of Ugly Delicious that everyone has been referencing. We were headed to another restaurant for dinner but on the way my husband suggested we try Nam Giao since it recently received the Michelin Bib Gourmand award. I was worried that it would be too crowded since the list just came out but we decided to try it anyway. We arrived slightly after 8pm on a Friday night. They close at 9pm.

The restaurant wasn’t even half full so the waitress motioned us to a table right away. She was helping another table so it was some time later before she came over with the menus. I think she was the only waitress so service was very slow.

We ordered the appetizer (of appetiser, as it is spelled on their menu) platter #5 which included items #1-3 (bánh bèo chén, bánh nậm, bánh bột lọc ) and chả huế. I ordered mì quảng and my husband ordered the bún bò huế. For drinks, I ordered water and my husband asked for chrysanthemum tea. She asked if we would like one or two teacups and we told her to bring 2.

The tea came out first. Usually we let it seep a little before it is ready but we poured a little out and it was very dark already. It was very “dirty” with lots of chrysanthemum leaves and it was very muddy. The photo shows how cloudy it was and the other photo shows a layer of “stuff” that sank to the bottom after sitting for a bit. Chrysanthemum tea should be light and clear. She did not bring my water so I had to ask for it again. Even after we got our food and were eating, I still didn’t have water and I sent my husband up to the counter to get water for me.

The appetizers were ok. The bánh nậm was a little bland. It was ok after you put a lot of the fish sauce on it.

I did not like my mì quảng at all and I left most of my bowl untouched. First of all, it didn’t look very appetizing. The chunks of pork were too big and fatty. Crushed peanuts were on top but it looked like a heaping of dust. Shrimp were dry, broth was too thick. Noodles were too thick as well. There was a chả huế in the bowl also. We had the same with the appetizers but they cut it up into thirds for this dish. I took a bit into one of the pieces and it tasted sour like it was spoiled. I spit it out immediately so I just hope I don’t get sick tonight.

My husband’s bún bò Huế tasted like bbh but it was very bland as if it was watered down.

I do want to note that I make both these dishes and I know what they are supposed to taste like. There are so many other restaurants in Houston that make these dishes a hundred times better. We were so disappointed in this restaurant. I left still hungry and completely dissatisfied -...

Disclaimer: I am an independent food reviewer. I paid for myself to review this restaurant. I do not receive any financial reimbursements from anyone for doing this review. I will try to put in the most accurate review without bias. Parking: plenty of spaces Outside, I arrived early in the morning therefore, I couldn’t tell how safe it is during the night time. Outside: it’s seen under average. The place connected to a bakery. From the outside look, the bakery does not look like it’s operating. I see equipments and other stuffs. It is very messy! Inside restaurants: spacious, many tables. Our table was dirty, the chair still has food spilled from previous customers. We sat next to the walls and keep having to fight with the little gnat. Services: There are 2 females working at the time we arrived. They made us feel like we are bothering them. We ordered 1 large Bun Bo, 1 Banh canh cua, 1 banh beo (8 pieces), 2 orders of banh bot loc. I requested 2 small bows because I wanted to give my child some of my bun bo, and my niece also wants to try it. The female server was mumbling something about us to the other female. She started walking towards our table. When I made eyes contacted with her. She turned to the empty table next to us and pretended to check something. Food: my bun bo has no flavor. It is so plain that I have to force myself to eat it. I have never had such disappointment in bun bo. This restaurant advertises they are Hue restaurant. ABSOLUTELY NOT! Zero star. The fish sauce for the banh beo is very sweet. Again this is not a Hue authentic. Overall: I don’t know about all the good reviews but the food has no taste so plain, bad service, the place is dirty. I would not recommend this restaurant. There are plenty of restaurants in Houston. If you want to enjoy a meal and spend quality time with your family, please...

Dear Nam Giao owner and staffs,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional service and incredible food that you consistently provide. Dining at your restaurant feels like a warm, comforting hug – just like Mom's cooking.

From the moment I step through your doors, I am greeted with genuine smiles and a welcoming atmosphere that instantly makes me feel at home. Your staff's dedication to ensuring every visit is a memorable one is truly commendable. They make me feel like a cherished guest every time I dine with you.

Now, let's talk about the food – it's nothing short of extraordinary. The flavors, the aromas, the presentation – every aspect of the dishes you serve reflects the passion and skill of your kitchen team. Each bite transports me back to the cherished memories of my mom's cooking. It's a nostalgic journey that warms my heart.

The authenticity of your cuisine is unparalleled, and I can taste the love and dedication that goes into each and every recipe. It's a rare and precious gift to find a restaurant that serves food so authentic and delicious, just like Mom used to make.

Please convey my heartfelt appreciation to your chefs, servers, and the entire team for consistently going above and beyond to create a dining experience that feels like a homecoming. Your restaurant holds a special place in my heart, and I eagerly look forward to every visit.

Thank you, once again, for being a culinary gem that brings joy and comfort to my life. Your commitment to excellence is truly appreciated.

With warmest regards and sincere thanks,

Your...