As we stepped into the unassuming eatery, we were met with a humble yet inviting atmosphere.
The interior was simple, with basic furnishings and clean tables. Although not particularly cozy, it had a certain charm to it, despite feeling a bit chilly likely due to our proximity to the door.
Service was surprisingly swift; our first dish arrived in less than 10 minutes, setting a promising pace for the rest of our meal.
Our anticipation grew as we looked at the photographs of the diverse array of dishes they have taped to the wall. The dishes came out one by one — something we are getting used to, as traditionally we were taught it is rude to start eating without everyone at the table being able to eat.
The first dish — and also the standout of the meal — was undoubtedly the spicy peanut rice noodle soup. It was a treasure of flavours, with tender beef, fresh cucumbers, and crisp bok choy swimming in a broth that struck the perfect balance between spicy and savory.
The addition of peanuts provided a pleasing crunch, making it a true treat. The portion size was beyond generous, it probably could have fed two.
The Vietnamese crispy chow mein with chicken was a delicious addition. While the chicken could have benefited from a touch more seasoning, the dish as a whole was still a standout. The crispy chow mein noodles gave a satisfying crunch that softened perfectly as you savoured each bite.
What impressed us most was the balance of flavours; it wasn't overly salty, allowing the subtle nuances of the ingredients to shine through. The tender chicken, combined with the fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked (or rather, cooking) noodles, created a harmonious medley of textures and tastes that left us craving more. It was a dish that exemplified simplicity done right, showcasing the beauty of Vietnamese cuisine in every mouthful.
Next up was the shrimp rice paper roll, a refreshing delight filled with plump shrimp and infused with a subtle lemongrass flavour. While the accompanying dipping sauce was a bit on the heavier side for our taste, it didn't detract from the overall enjoyment of the rolls.
The chicken siu mai was a succulent surprise, bursting with flavour and nestled in a soft wonton egg wrap. Despite its less-than-appealing appearance, each bite was tender, juicy and delicious.
The BBQ pork bun, while good, fell slightly short of our expectations. Although the bun itself was soft and steamed to perfection, the fact that it was pre-cut was a disappointment. Breaking open a hot steamed bun, is for us, one of the best parts. Nevertheless, the sweet bread and flavourful filling still made for a satisfying treat.
To wash it all down, we indulged in Vietnamese iced coffee and taro bubble tea. The iced coffee, made with condensed milk, packed a powerful punch that left us feeling happily caffeinated.
This probably wasn’t a great idea for a 7 p.m. dinner, but it was seriously so good it was worth the nighttime buzz. Its sweetness complemented the bold richness of the coffee perfectly. Truthfully, this was the best and boldest iced coffee we have ever had.
The taro bubble tea, while not as memorable as the coffee, was still a tasty accompaniment to our meal. In hindsight, these drinks would be great to-go or as standalone drinks without dinner. We will be back for iced coffee no matter what.
Overall, our dining experience at this humble establishment was a positive one. While the decor may have been understated, the food spoke volumes with its bold flavours and generous portions.
Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of noodle soup, pho, or a refreshing roll, this place has something for everyone. The quality of the vegetables and ingredients used is beyond exceptional.
If you find yourself in the mood for authentic Vietnamese cuisine served with speed and efficiency, look no further than this new-kid-on-the-block.
Sarnia Nibbles is a long-time downtown resident of Sarnia, with an insatiable love for food. They came to life on Instagram as a delicious extension of a personal love affair with food, drink, and the vibrant local community. The creator aims to capture the essence of Sarnia’s food scene, showcasing hidden gems, time-honoured favourites, and stories behind the dishes that make this city a gastronomic treasure trove. Sarnia Nibbles prides themselves on honesty, including the good, the bad, the delicious, and the disgusting in their reviews.
Bon Appetit!
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