3 /5 Jorge Andrade: I’m giving this place 3 stars because the food is genuinely good and the restaurant has a lot of potential, but it’s missing a strong Vietnamese identity that would make it stand out.
The dishes we tried were tasty overall. The pho was especially enjoyable — rich, comforting, and well balanced — although I would have preferred it served a bit hotter, and the garnishes could have been fresher. The starters were solid as well. That said, I was surprised not to see some essential Vietnamese classics on the menu, like bánh xèo (the Vietnamese pancake), which is one of my favourite staples. If the restaurant is branding itself as Vietnamese, I think the menu should lean more heavily into authentic Vietnamese cuisine rather than including so many Thai and pan-Asian options.
The biggest opportunity for improvement is the atmosphere. The space is large and has great potential, but the décor feels overly pretentious and lacks a clear identity. Vietnamese restaurants can be beautifully simple — even minimalist metal tables and chairs can create an authentic street-style vibe without requiring a big investment. Right now, the design feels disconnected from the cuisine and doesn’t reflect the warmth and character of Vietnamese culture.
Service was friendly and efficient. With a few thoughtful changes to the décor and a stronger focus on Vietnamese identity in the menu, this place could easily become a neighbourhood favourite.
