Address: 1275 Highbury Avenue N #116, London, ON N5Y 1A8, Canada

Phone: +1 519 455 7704

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://thuankieu.ca/

Thuan Kieu Vietnamese Restaurant

Brace yourself for a culinary journey at Thuan Kieu, a long-standing favorite among locals in London, ON. This casual, family-run spot has been dishing up authentic Vietnamese cuisine for nearly two decades. Consistency is the name of the game here, and that's exactly what diners can expect when they pull up a chair.

Let's start with the classics. The pho is an undeniable crowd-pleaser. Steaming broth that's rich but not overly greasy, loaded with tender meat and perfectly cooked noodles. Whether you go for the rare beef or something more adventurous, you're in for a comforting, aromatic bowl of goodness. Have I mentioned that it feels like a warm hug in a bowl? 🍲

The vermicelli dishes are another standout, particularly the special vermicelli. It features finely grilled pork and chicken that are marinated to perfection. The dish is accompanied by fresh veggies and just the right amount of fish sauce to tie everything together. The portion sizes are generous, so make sure you come hungry!

For appetizers, the fresh veggie rolls are a must-try. These bad boys are filled with crisp veggies and paired with a peanut sauce that could win awards. It's a great way to start your meal, and that peanut sauce is so good you'll want to drizzle it over everything.

If you're after something a bit different, the grilled lemongrass chicken with fish sauce is another winner. The chicken is tender and flavorful without being dominated by the lemongrass. It’s well-balanced and comes with an array of fresh sides that make it a complete meal.

On the sweeter side, do leave room for a mango shake. Trust me, it's a refreshing end to your meal that you don’t want to miss. 🍹

Reservations aren’t necessary here, but if you’re planning on heading in during peak dinner hours on the weekend, it couldn’t hurt to call ahead. Service tends to be quick whether you’re dining in or opting for takeout, and the staff—led by the ever-friendly Tiu—ensures that every visit feels welcoming and homely.

Prices at Thuan Kieu are reasonable, especially considering the hearty portions. However, the restaurant isn't without its quibbles. Some patrons have mentioned inconsistency with dishes like the fried noodles and spring rolls. While it’s mostly dependable, it seems there are occasional misses, especially during busy hours. The debate on MSG usage also adds a slight gray area, although this hasn't been confirmed conclusively.

If you're a Vietnamese food enthusiast or just someone looking to try something new, Thuan Kieu offers an authentic taste experience that's hard to find elsewhere in the area. Their commitment to quality and family-run charm makes it worth a visit. Just maybe skip the fried noodles and stick to the classics for the best experience.