New York has not seen as many Vietnamese restaurants open as other areas with larger populations such as Houston or San Jose and Westminster in California; however, in recent years a few have opened that are offering a distinctive New York style of Vietnamese cooking that goes beyond pho and banh mi. Many of these younger establishments are run by second-generation chefs demonstrating to diners that Vietnamese cooking encompasses much more than what their first-generation parents served up.
Bep Ga, in Chinatown's Forsyth Street, features an eclectic blend of influences. Its decor is vibrant pink, and its menu combines craft cocktails with homestyle Vietnamese fare like bourbon-battered red snapper and Unshaking Beef. Bunker, located in Park Slope from an alum of San Francisco's Slanted Door, features one of New York City's most covered patios for street food snacks such as grilled oxtail with puff pork, charred radicchio, and pickled carrots. Finally there's Bep Nha Viet Kitchen that serves not just pho, but punchy vermicelli bowls as well as their specialty dish "Com Ga," reflecting chef Ngo's experiences throughout Vietnam Houston New York.
Em Vietnamese Kitchen was an unqualified success in Bensonhurst; now its beloved Chef Ly Nguyen (graduate of Culinary Institute of America) has opened two locations in Dumbo to present modern Vietnamese cuisine. She adds her signature twists on classics such as garlic butter clams with chili and rau ram; her take on banh xeo (Vietnamese crepe) is more like an irresistibly flavorful taco filled with bean sprouts, lettuce shreds, nuoc mam and your choice of meat, chicken or tofu!
The Vietnamese Kitchen is More Than a Culinary Sanctuary takes us on a fascinating journey through the vibrant kitchens of New York, where the flavors of Vietnam come alive. From aromatic herbs to rich broths, this article has shares a glimpse into the essence of Vietnamese cuisine that goes beyond just its delicious food. Discover why the Vietnamese kitchen holds a special place in the hearts of both Vietnamese locals and New Yorkers alike. Explore the link above to delve deeper into the world of Vietnamese culinary traditions and the cultural significance it holds for many.