Vietnamese cuisine has exploded on the Aussie food scene in recent years, fast becoming one of the most popular exotic food choices all across the country. There are many good reasons for this, as you’ll discover when you read this article.
Whether you visit a Vietnamese restaurant in Lidcombe or a Vietnamese pho restaurant anywhere else in the country, here are some compelling reasons why you should choose Vietnamese food.
1. Vibrant Flavours
Like many countries in SE Asia, food from Vietnam is well-known for its vibrant and balanced flavours. There is often a delicious and harmonious blend of sweet and sour, salty, spicy, bitter flavours and more, making for a dining experience that’s both memorable and satisfying.
2. Healthy Dining Options
Do your body and your taste buds a huge favour. With a strong emphasis on using only the freshest and most nutritious ingredients, Vietnamese cuisine is rated by many as some of the healthiest food on the planet. Utilising vegetables, herbs, lean meats, green leafy vegetables, Vietnamese noodle dishes (such as pho noodles) and more, choosing a Vietnamese restaurant as a healthy dining option should be your first choice.
3. Expansive and Diverse Menus
One feature that’s common to many Vietnamese venues in Australia is that many of them have quite big and diverse menus. Not only are there a lot of choices, but the types of meals and flavours vary considerably. There is literally something on the menu that will satisfy even the fussiest of eaters. Choose from delectable pho noodle soups, fresh spring rolls, chicken laksa, meals with steamed rice and so much more to look forward to.
4. Immerse Yourself in Vietnamese Culture
Not only will you experience some of the culture of Vietnam through the food, but most restaurants will also have a distinct homeland flavour present in the decor, the staff, mood music and more. With just the right ambience and traditional meal preparation methods, you’ll feel like you’ve ventured on a trip to Vietnam.
5. Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Vietnamese people enjoy using meat and fish in many of their dishes, but Vietnamese restaurants, being big on vegetables, also provide numerous dishes that will have vegans and vegetarians salivating. Without compromising on flavour, enjoy some of the best plant-based dishes in the world at your local Vietnamese restaurant. For example, a mixed vegetable with egg rice noodle soup, or a satay mixed vegetable with rice dish.
6. Culinary Innovation
Traditional Vietnamese chefs and those who learn the art of cooking Vietnamese cuisine are a creative and innovative bunch. By blending modern culinary techniques with traditional flavours, the result is an array of exciting and flavoursome dishes. Vietnamese restaurants are popular and dynamic because of their ability to innovate and excite.
7. Comforting Soups
Visit just about any Vietnamese restaurant and view the menu and you’ll discover there are many different soup dishes to choose from. While a good soup can certainly be enjoyed at any time of the year, imagine digging into a delicious, hot and steamy bowl of seafood, egg and rice noodle soup during the cold months oo winter. It’s sure to warm you up and that’s just one example out of many. There is nothing more comforting than a good hearty broth and Vietnamese restaurants have some of the best soups in the business.
8. Value for Money
Delicious food aside, one of the key reasons why Vietnamese cuisine is so popular in Australia is it’s affordable. In fact, value for money is so high that you can afford to treat the entire family out to a meal on a regular basis. Portion sizes are also very generous and Vietnamese food is perfect for sharing.
9. Casual Dining
Aussies are in love with the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of a casual dining restaurant and the vast majority of Vietnamese establishments fall in the casual dining category. Kick back, unwind and enjoy a hearty and healthy meal at your local Vietnamese restaurant, complete with excellent service but a chilled atmosphere.
The Takeaway
A Vietnamese restaurant provides an invitation to a flavourful journey into the heart and culture of Vietnam and its culinary delights. Cultural richness is embedded in every dish and you’ll leave the restaurant feeling comfortably full, and with the delicious flavours of Vietnam lingering on your taste buds.