Paul
Google
*****2025 Update****
The first time I ate here back in 2024 it was incredible. When I revisited in March of 2025 it was barely tolerable. I'm not sure what happened in the meantime, or if it was just an off night, but I was really disappointed (brought a buddy to show the place off!).
Server was distracted and got our order wrong. Food was marginal at best. The attention to detail so evident from my first experience here (original review below) was sadly missing.
So I've adjusted my ratings to be in between my initial star-struck wonder and my most recent disappointment. Hopefully my next visit will restore my confidence - and the higher rating!
****** 2024 Original Review*****
Amazing flavors, incredibly solicitous and helpful staff in a carefully decorated restaurant.
I started with the spring rolls. These were very fresh, crispy inside without the rice paper wrapper being crunchy as well. Filled with shrimp, a bit of sliced pork, rice noodles and lettuce. Served with a giant dish of sweet peanut sauce. Sadly, the *only* bad thing I can say about this place is they don't have chili oil or even a sriracha option, just a generic chili sauce that is underwhelming. However the garlic slices soaked in vinegar are a new treat and wonderful if you don't need to kiss anyone later.
The grilled pork banh mi was incredible. The French baguette was perfect - crunchy and flaky on the outside and fluffy and tender on the inside. They seem to have basted the top lightly in something that makes your fingers sticky, perhaps butter and herbs? Hard to tell. Filled with pickled veggies and generous helpings of grilled pork. The overall effect was fantastic.
Finished up with a ca phe sua da, the traditional Vietnamese French roast coffee with sweetened condensed milk. This was easily the best one I've ever had. It was incredibly rich - not just sweet from the sweetened condensed milk but the quality of the coffee was obviously top-notch. I never want a ca phe sua da to end, but I sipped this one as long as I could, it was so incredible.
If you're in Manila and looking for good Vietnamese, come here. I trust their pho and other offerings are just as flavorful.