Greenwich Village, with its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, boasts a surprising number of excellent Vietnamese restaurants. This guide highlights nine of the best, offering a taste of Vietnam's rich and flavorful cuisine right in the heart of NYC. Whether you crave fragrant pho, crispy spring rolls, or savory banh mi, this list has something for every palate. Finding the best Vietnamese restaurant is subjective, of course, but these consistently receive high praise.
Pholicious Adventures: Top Pho Spots in the Village
Finding great pho in Greenwich Village is easier than you might think. These restaurants consistently deliver on both flavor and authenticity:
1. Pho Dau Bo
Pho Dau Bo is a beloved local favorite known for its rich, deeply flavorful broths. Their pho is prepared with high-quality ingredients and simmered for hours, resulting in a complex and satisfying taste. Beyond pho, they offer a wide variety of other Vietnamese dishes, making it a great option for groups with varying preferences. Their service is consistently friendly and efficient, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
What to order: Their Pho Tai (rare steak pho) is a classic choice, but don't miss their Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup from Hue, Central Vietnam.
2. An Choi
An Choi stands out for its modern and stylish atmosphere, a welcome change from some of the more traditional Vietnamese eateries. While the ambiance is contemporary, the food remains firmly rooted in traditional Vietnamese flavors. They focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and offer a creative take on classic dishes.
What to order: Their spring rolls are exceptionally well-prepared, featuring fresh herbs and a perfectly balanced dipping sauce. Their banh mi are also highly regarded.
Beyond Pho: Exploring the Diverse Vietnamese Cuisine
Greenwich Village's Vietnamese scene extends far beyond pho. These restaurants offer a broader exploration of Vietnamese culinary artistry:
3. Van Da
Van Da is a great option for a more upscale Vietnamese dining experience. Their menu features sophisticated takes on traditional dishes, often incorporating modern culinary techniques while staying true to the core flavors of Vietnamese cooking. The presentation of their dishes is also noteworthy.
What to order: Their grilled dishes, particularly their lemongrass chicken, are highly recommended.
4. Nha Trang One
Nha Trang One offers a more casual and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great place for a quick and satisfying meal, without sacrificing quality or authenticity. Their prices are generally very reasonable.
What to order: Their com dia, broken rice dishes, are a great way to sample a variety of flavors and textures.
5. Saigon Shack
Saigon Shack is a popular spot for its delicious and affordable banh mi sandwiches. These aren't your average banh mi; they're packed with flavor and use high-quality ingredients, making them a truly satisfying meal.
What to order: The classic pork banh mi is a must-try, but don't hesitate to explore their other options, which often feature creative combinations.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites
These smaller, yet equally noteworthy, restaurants offer a unique and intimate dining experience:
6. Com Tam Ninh Kieu
Com Tam Ninh Kieu specializes in cơm tấm, a broken rice dish that's incredibly popular in Vietnam. This restaurant offers a variety of cơm tấm options, each featuring a unique combination of proteins, vegetables, and sauces.
What to order: Their cơm tấm sườn bì chả (broken rice with grilled pork chops, pork skin, and Vietnamese sausage) is a classic.
7. Banh Mi Zon
Banh Mi Zon is another excellent spot for banh mi, offering a slightly different take than Saigon Shack. Their bread is often praised for its texture, and their fillings are generous and flavorful.
What to order: Try their lemongrass chicken banh mi for a refreshing and fragrant experience.
Sweet Endings and Unexpected Delights
These restaurants offer a complete Vietnamese culinary journey, including delightful desserts:
8. Little Hanoi
Little Hanoi provides a taste of a wider range of Vietnamese foods beyond the usual suspects. They offer regional specialties you might not find elsewhere, making it a great choice for adventurous eaters.
What to order: Explore their menu for dishes less common in other Vietnamese restaurants in the area.
9. Vietnam House
Vietnam House, while not specializing in one specific dish, provides a reliable and consistent Vietnamese dining experience. It's a good "safe bet" for those who want a classic and satisfying meal in a comfortable setting. They offer a full range of dishes, from pho to vermicelli bowls.
What to order: They offer a good selection of noodle soups (besides pho) that are worth checking out.
Conclusion:
Greenwich Village offers a rich and varied selection of Vietnamese restaurants, each with its own unique personality and culinary strengths. This list serves as a starting point for your culinary adventures in the Village; be sure to explore and discover your own personal favorites! Remember to check websites or call ahead for hours of operation and potential specials. Enjoy your Vietnamese food journey!
