TIME FOR A MEAL
1.Simple, authentic food with a personal touch
- Address: Yen’s Restaurant – 73/6 Trần Quang Khải, Nha Trang
Wherever you look around, while traveling through Vietnam you will find yourself surrounded by friendly and welcoming people. There is nothing better than arriving to a place where they will genuinely receive you with their arms wide open. And this is exactly what happens when you go to Yen’s Restaurant. Food is exceptionally good. If you want to go local, this is the place to go. Simple but exquisite traditional Vietnamese dishes that will definitely make you want to come back again! As you can expect, this place gets crowded in rush hours, so make sure you get there on time and work up your patience as you might have to wait for a bit. It’s totally worth it!
2.Village life in a dish
Address: Nha Trang Xua (Nhà Hàng Nha Trang Xưa)- Vĩnh Thái, Nha Trang
If you really are looking for something local you have to come to this place. It is a bit off track, but you won’t regret it once you get there. The good thing about it is that being outside town, you will find yourself surrounded by the lush Vietnamese nature of the countryside and experience firsthand the ancient village life. The views are stunning thanks to the surrounding lotus lake, plus the natural noises will add up to the feeling of tranquillity and calmness. On top of that the food is simply amazing. Tasty dishes cooked the traditional way will show you what real Vietnamese food is about. The restaurant has an open kitchen where you will not only see the delicacy of the chefs but will also get a chance to peek at the preparation methods. If you are curious enough you can get back home with a recipe or two under your arm.
The friendly staff will help you with your choices and will make suggestions in case you are not sure what to go for. We suggest you try the Ban Xeo (a sort of flavoursome crêpe with your choice of veggies and meat). Yummy, yummy.
3.Dinner in a colonial house
- Address: Nhà Hàng Góc Hà Nội – 142 Bạch Đằng, Tân Lập, Nha Trang
The name of this place means Hanoi Corner, so it is no surprise that the style of the dishes intends to truly represent the northern city. Sitting in a single place you will be able to taste a variety of meals that if you were to try in the capital, you would have to go around Hanoi for a whole week visiting different restaurants. In here you just have to point your finger at the menu and tour the city from the comfort of your table. The flavours are authentic and the selection is very representative of the North Vietnam culinary style.
There is also a set menu for 2-3 people that will help you try many dishes without having to think too much.
Set in a modernist building, it will give you the chance to appreciate a piece of Vietnamese history in the making. Lastly, keep an eye out for the restaurant guardian in the form of a friendly husky who will make sure you leave with a smile in addition to a full belly.
4. Vietnamese style BBQ
- Address: Lac Canh – 44 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Xương Huân, Nha Trang
You want to see how the Vietnamese like their barbeque? Then come to this place and you won’t be disappointed. Between you and me, the secret lies in the fact that they cook the meat, fish, veggies and fruits! on a charcoal BBQ grill that sits in the middle of your own table. The place grew from being a home cooking venue to this superb restaurant that knew how to maintain the street food feel. It gets packed with locals so try to make a reservation in advance or be prepared to wait for a little bit. It is the best option for large groups and big celebrations, so it can get at times a bit rowdy, especially after a few beers and many more toasts, but this is real Vietnam without any filters. The prices are accessible and the flavours are simply a thing to remember. We dare you to try it only one time!
5.Fancy food with a conscience
- Address: Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant – 30A Nguyễn Thiện Thuật, Tân Lập, Nha Trang
This place is above the average in every respect. Not only does the famous chef cook excellent food with finesse, but the restaurant also does it respecting the traditional way: family and friends around the incredibly fresh produce of Vietnam. Besides, the restaurant prides itself in providing food supplies and staples to the less fortunate in the area and they also have a scholarship to help poor children attend school. All the waiters speak English and they surely make you feel at home when you eat there. The absolute must dishes to try are the hot pot (simmering broth with your choice of ingredients on the side) and the fish, but if you go for the vegetarian option, there is also a wide array of options for you to choose from. Coming here is always a good decision when you are unsure of where to eat.