明兴公寓

Spread across two floors, you may need to share a table at this lively local spot – a testament to its authentic Vietnamese fare. Straw chandeliers and local-style paintings add charm. The menu focuses on two dishes: Mỳ Quảng, a local speciality made with soft, fragrant flat rice noodles and varied toppings; and Bánh Thịt Heo, boiled pork belly wrapped in rice paper and herbs, served with a tangy dipping sauce made from fermented anchovy and tropical fruits.

Following its relocation, the restaurant now occupies three floors, offering a more spacious and comfortable setting. The exotic Indian-inspired design adds character, while the kitchen remains true to authentic traditional flavours. An experienced Indian chef helms the kitchen and his extensive menu features iconic dishes from the north to the south of his homeland. Kick off your meal with a refreshing papadam dipped in mint chutney. Then try the saag ghosh, a lamb and spinach curry from Northern India, even better with garlic naan to mop up the creamy sauce.

This stall sells all things duck. Duck porridge is made with rice and mung beans in a duck broth. Poached duck boasts firm, flavourful meat. When tossed with green mango, green banana, fig and herbs, it makes a refreshing salad.

Rang is the Hindi word for colour and splashes of colour adorn the room, including colourful curries in white, yellow, green and red. The owner-chefs are two brothers, born in India and raised in Australia. They received formal training in Western culinary arts and champion a nouvelle cuisine with international influences. Start with chicken tikka, tailed by dal tadka yellow curry with roti or naan. Rice lovers should try their biryani.

People flock here for its famous duck porridge. A local duck breed from Cẩm Nam Island, rice, mung beans and coix seeds are slowly simmered in duck broth for a creamy, hearty meal. Poached duck and duck salad are also available.

The family, who hails from Huế, opened this shop in 2014 to sell Huế’s version of bún bò, or beef noodle soup. The umami-loaded broth with beef meat and bones simmers overnight, building balanced, big-boned flavours. They use medium thick rice noodles. Popular toppings include beef tendon, rib, brisket and tongue, as well as pork trotters and crab balls. If you want to sample all the toppings, opt for the đặc biệt version.

This two-storey oasis away from the bustling main strip features al fresco seating in a lush green setting. Scan the QR code to learn more about the menu and Vietnamese food in general. Phố nam is a must-try with noodles in a clear beef bone broth loaded with flavours. Order the thập cẩm version to try all beef cuts. Bánh xèo miền tây is another popular choice with crispy pancakes and a generous filling. Cheerful, friendly front-of-house team.