Beyond the Mainstream: Uncovering Melbourne's True Vietnamese Flavors
Melbourne's love affair with Vietnamese food is well-documented, with hotspots in Richmond and Footscray drawing crowds for their famous pho and banh mi. But beyond these well-trodden paths lies a deeper, more diverse culinary landscape waiting to be explored. This is a city where family-run eateries, tucked away in quiet suburban streets, serve up generations-old recipes, and where hidden gems offer a taste of regional specialties you won't find on most menus. This guide is for the adventurous foodie, the one who's willing to look beyond the obvious to find the true heart of Vietnamese cooking in Melbourne. We've compiled a list of 20 of the best spots, from local favorites cherished by the Vietnamese community to secret kitchens that are worth the journey. Get ready to discover your new favorite place.
The Local Legends: Where the Vietnamese Community Eats
These are the places that might not have the trendiest decor or the most prominent locations, but they have something far more valuable: the loyalty of the local Vietnamese community. This is where you'll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
1. Co Do (Richmond & Footscray) - For Bun Bo Hue
While many flock to Richmond for pho, those in the know head to Co Do for its exceptional Bun Bo Hue. This spicy beef noodle soup from the former imperial city of Hue is a complex and fragrant dish, and Co Do's version is widely regarded as one of the best in Melbourne. The broth is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of lemongrass, chili, and shrimp paste.
2. Thanh Ha 2 (Richmond) - For Banh Cuon
Tucked away on Victoria Street, Thanh Ha 2 specializes in Banh Cuon, delicate steamed rice noodle rolls filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. Served with a side of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a light fish sauce, it's a dish that's both light and incredibly flavorful. Watching the skilled chefs make these delicate rolls by hand is part of the experience.
3. Dong Ba (Footscray) - For a Taste of Hue
Another gem for lovers of central Vietnamese cuisine, Dong Ba in Footscray offers a menu that goes beyond the usual suspects. Here you can find a variety of Hue specialties, from the aforementioned Bun Bo Hue to Banh Beo, delicate steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp and crispy pork skin. It's a true taste of a region known for its refined and royal culinary traditions.
Hidden Gems: The Restaurants Worth Seeking Out
These are the places you might not stumble upon by accident, but they are well worth the effort to find. From suburban secrets to unassuming storefronts, these hidden gems offer some of the most memorable Vietnamese dining experiences in Melbourne.
4. Super Bowl Pho (Collingwood) - A Modern Take on a Classic
While the name might suggest a focus on pho, Super Bowl Pho offers a wide range of delicious and well-executed Vietnamese dishes in a modern and stylish setting. Their crispy pork with rice is a local favorite, and their pho is consistently excellent. It's a great option for those looking for authentic flavors in a more contemporary environment.
5. Pho Hung (Preston) - A Northern Suburbs Star
Located in the heart of Preston's Vietnamese community, Pho Hung is a beloved local institution. The pho here is top-notch, with a rich and aromatic broth that has been perfected over many years. It's a no-frills kind of place where the focus is squarely on the food, and the loyal following is a testament to its quality.
6. Thy Thy 1 (Richmond) - A Taste of Old Saigon
Walking into Thy Thy 1 is like stepping back in time. This long-standing restaurant has a unique and charmingly chaotic atmosphere, with a set menu of simple, home-style Vietnamese dishes served at communal tables. It's an experience as much as a meal, and one that has been cherished by generations of Melburnians.
The Full List: 20 Must-Try Vietnamese Food Spots
- Co Do (Richmond & Footscray) - Bun Bo Hue
- Thanh Ha 2 (Richmond) - Banh Cuon
- Dong Ba (Footscray) - Hue Specialties
- Super Bowl Pho (Collingwood) - Modern Vietnamese
- Pho Hung (Preston) - Northern Suburbs Pho
- Thy Thy 1 (Richmond) - Old Saigon Experience
- Nhu Lan Bakery (Footscray) - Legendary Banh Mi
- Hanoi Mee Kitchen (Port Melbourne) - Authentic Bun Cha
- Pho Nom (CBD) - Quick & Quality City Lunch
- Mister Truong's (Brunswick) - Creative Vietnamese Flavors
- Uncle (CBD & Collins Street) - Upscale & Modern
- Red Spice Road (CBD) - Southeast Asian Fusion with Vietnamese Highlights
- Straight Outta Saigon (CBD) - Fun & Funky Street Food
- Annam (CBD) - French-Vietnamese Fusion
- The Rice Paper (Fitzroy) - Healthy & Fresh Rice Paper Rolls
- Fina's Vegetarian Restaurant (Richmond) - Plant-Based Vietnamese
- VN Wrap & Roll (Various Locations) - Quick & Healthy Rolls
- Lentil as Anything (Abbotsford) - Pay-As-You-Feel Vegetarian with Vietnamese Options
- Pho Victoria (North Melbourne) - A Local Favorite
- Gia Dinh (Sunshine) - Authentic Family-Style Dining
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
This list is just the beginning of what Melbourne's Vietnamese food scene has to offer. Each of these 20 spots provides a unique window into the rich and diverse world of Vietnamese cuisine. So, be adventurous, try something new, and discover the hidden gems and local favorites that make Melbourne one of the best cities in the world for Vietnamese food. Your next favorite meal is just waiting to be found.
