Eater X.
Yelp
In a nutshell: impressive. Vietnamese beers I had not tried (both 333 and Hanoi were delicious), adventurous cocktails (traditional also available), and impressive food (Banh Bot Chien is a must).
Went here with 4 other girls for a ladies dinner. We wound up having a couple drinks in the cocktail bar at the back (Red Lily) as the wine bar we had planned for was bursting at the doors.
Red Lily is dark and tiny, with all but a handful of the seats being at the bar. We arrived shortly after 7 for our 8.30 sitting. There were maybe 6 other patrons and 3-4 friendly bar tenders. By the time we received out first round, the place was packed. Service was friendly and informative. Cocktails were delicious (one of mine included tequila and mango with a Chili salt rim. Loved it!)
As we were in the building already, the staff came to collect us when the table was ready, with the added bonus of us being able to transfer our unfinished drinks - and our tab - to our dinner table.
We decided against the tasting menu and split 3 entrees, one mid course, and 3 mains between the 5 of us, which provided more than enough food. With the addition of dinner drinks (3 beers and a bottle of wine) the tab came in at a very reasonable $80/pp (remember there were at least 7 cocktails @ $17/per that were carried over).
As mentioned above, the Banh Bot Chien (rice cakes with prawn and pork) is a must. The Muc Raing Muoi (fried chilli salt squid) was delicious, and a generous serve. The Goi Du Du Tom Thit (green papaya salad with twice cooked pork belly and prawns) is also not to be passed over.
For mains we had the Ca Kho (salmon in a caramel, chili, and black pepper sauce) which was outstanding. We refused to let our server take the bowl away as we each had an extra serve of rice soaked in the remaining sauce.
The Vit Sot Man Gung Keo (duck with plumb sauce and candied ginger) was delicious, and again, a very generous portion - which is always a surprise with duck.
The Bo Luc Lac (beef with garlic, sesame and black pepper) was probably the least favourite, despite not having any faults. The beef was perfectly tender, but was simply out shined by the salmon and the duck.
Service was again friendly and knowledgable, although the waitress had to be reminded of a beer that had been ordered, but hey, that happens.
I had no idea what to expect coming here, and was very happy with the outcome. I have no problem recommending this place, and am excited for my next visit.