London’s Chinatown is a vibrant hub, teeming with dining options that can sometimes feel overwhelming. For those seeking genuine Viet Food, the choices are plentiful, yet discerning the truly authentic from the commonplace can be a challenge. However, nestled on Wardour Street, Viet-Food stands out as a beacon for Vietnamese street food enthusiasts, highly recommended by those in the know within Chinatown itself.
Viet-Food is the brainchild of Jeff Tan, a chef with an impressive culinary background, including stints at the renowned Hakkasan. His vision was simple: to bring the vibrant and flavorful experience of Vietnamese street food to London, without the hefty price tag. Stepping into Viet-Food is like entering a Vietnamese cafe – unpretentious and focused on the food. Forget fancy décor; the charm lies in the bustling atmosphere and the promise of delicious, affordable viet food.
While Viet-Food officially takes reservations, the reality is more fluid. To secure a prime spot, especially during peak lunch hours, arriving slightly earlier or later is advisable. Snagging a window seat offers the added bonus of people-watching while you savor your viet food.
On a recent visit, accompanied by a Vietnam returnee with a discerning palate for authentic viet food, the menu choices were straightforward yet satisfying. The selection perfectly catered to a group of three, allowing for a delightful exploration of Vietnamese flavors.
Must-Try Viet Food Dishes at Viet-Food
The Vietnamese home-made spring rolls were an immediate highlight. These weren’t the typical spring rolls; instead, they were crafted into delicate, nest-like structures, delivering a satisfyingly crispy texture with each bite. A true testament to authentic viet food appetizers.
The morning glory dish was another standout, bursting with flavor and freshness. This simple yet often overlooked vegetable dish, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, was executed to perfection. It’s a testament to how good healthy viet food can be when prepared with care and authenticity. It received enthusiastic approval from the Vietnam expert, a high compliment indeed.
The Saigon stir-fry duck breast with green papaya was a revelation. The duck was incredibly tender, melting in the mouth, and infused with rich, complex flavors. Each mouthful was an explosion of taste, showcasing the best of Vietnamese culinary techniques. This dish exemplifies the flavorful depth that viet food is celebrated for.
Another memorable dish was the chicken, though the precise name is now a pleasant blur. Its defining characteristic was its tenderness – falling apart effortlessly and leaving a lingering desire for more. This particular chicken dish was part of a set lunch menu, highlighting the value and quality available even in set options.
Verdict: Your Go-To Spot for Viet Food in Chinatown
Viet-Food unequivocally delivers on its promise of authentic and delicious viet food. From the flavorful dishes to the efficient service and reasonable prices, it ticks all the boxes. The experience was so positive that a return visit is already firmly on the cards. Adding to the appeal, the discovery of Jeff Tan’s sister restaurant, Gô in South Kensington, extends the viet food journey beyond Chinatown.
August 2020 update: Both restaurants are open following Covid-19 closures.
Viet-Food
34-36 Wardour St, Soho W1D 6QT
0207 494 4555
