A Hidden Gem for Onigiri Lovers – Ngon Da Nang
If you’re looking for a true taste of Japanese comfort food right here in Vietnam, Ngon Da Nang is a must-visit. This charming spot blends the heart of a traditional Japanese restaurant with the warmth of a local Asian eatery, offering onigiri that’s nothing short of exceptional.
I tried their seaweed rice balls with two flavors of tuna – the tuna mayo sate and the Japanese-style tuna mayo – and both were absolutely divine. The rice was perfectly seasoned, soft yet structured, and the seaweed wrap added a gentle crispness that elevated every bite. The sate version had a pleasant kick, perfect for spice lovers, while the Japanese-style one was creamy, delicate, and umami-rich.
Each onigiri was a delightful balance of texture and taste – like a little hug for your tastebuds. It’s the kind of food that makes you pause and savor, even in the middle of a busy day.
Don’t leave without trying their matcha – smooth, fragrant, and just the right touch of bitterness to complement the savory flavors. It ties the meal together beautifully.
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or just curious about Asian culinary treasures, Ngon Da Nang is a place that promises – and delivers – a truly...
Read more(日本語は下にあります) A restaurant in Da Nang where you can enjoy delicious Japanese food (onigiri). Don’t underestimate it just because it’s in Da Nang, Vietnam. In fact, you might not even find onigiri and side dishes this delicious in Japan! As a Japanese person, I can assure you—this place is the real deal.
First, the most important part—the onigiri.
Let’s put the variety of fillings aside for now and talk about the rice. It’s simply outstanding. The onigiri is gently hand-formed, so it falls apart delicately in your mouth, releasing the natural aroma of the rice. The more you chew, the sweeter it gets. I thought the rice must have been imported from Japan, but it turns out it’s Vietnamese-grown Koshihikari!
The dashimaki (Japanese rolled omelet) is also expertly made.
It’s rolled so beautifully that it could easily be served in a high-end kappo restaurant. The taste is perfectly balanced, and when paired with the onigiri, it gives you a deep sense of comfort.
The miso soup is made with white miso.
The dashi (soup stock) is incredibly refined, so I assumed the chef must be a Japanese professional… but it turns out the cook is actually local!
If you ever find yourself getting a little tired of Vietnamese cuisine, why not take a brief trip back to Japan by visiting...
Read moreLovely little onigiri joint in Bac My Phu, Da Nang, along a quieter street that nonetheless attracts a healthy crowd around the clock. It's a small space but they manage to fit a decent number of tables in. The staff are warm and amiable, and speak Japanese and English atop Vietnamese. Similarly, there are menus for each of those languages. The onigiri served up are reasonably-priced and make for a solid light meal, or a quick takeaway, and are about as cute-looking as the...
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