Dreaming of the flavours of Asia? We feel ya. And if there’s one place you can get a taste, it’s Manchester. From beautiful Indian restaurants to authentic Thai spots, our city has it all. But one thing we really do well? Good Vietnamese grub. Let your tastebuds get lost in a world of fresh seafood dishes, homemade noodle soups and unbelievable barbecued meats with our guide to the best places for Vietnamese food in Manchester.
1. Viet Shack
Starting up at Arndale Market in 2015, Viet Shack has become one of the most-loved street food spots in Manchester – so much so, they opened up the doors to their very own Ancoats restaurant back in 2018. Fans of Vietnamese food (including the Secret Manchester team) rate them incredibly highly, returning on a regular basis for their flavourful food and diverse menu.
Expect small plates such as summer rolls, lamb chops and crispy squid, and big plates with options such as peanut butter chicken fries, Vegan Pho Xao and a number of inspired burgers. There’s something for everyone, whether a pho pro or a novice to the cuisine. Viet Shack, 49 High St, M4 3AH | 65 Great Ancoats St, Ancoats, M4 5AB.
2. Vnam
Another hidden Ancoats gem, Vnam is based on busy Oldham Road, serving up authentic Vietnamese food in a simple, homely setting. Claiming the title of the first Vietnamese restaurant in Manchester (est. 2010), the restaurant offers fresh cuisine – from stacked sharing platters full of meat, fish and rolls, to rice dishes and hearty bowls of pho. Their beef stew is so loved, it’s usually a sell-out and the portion sizes are spot-on every time. Vnam, 140 Oldham Rd, Ancoats, M4 6BG.
3. Pho
Loved nationwide, it wouldn’t be list of good Viatnamese spots without Pho on it. The decor is super chilled and laid back making it the perfect spot for post-work dinner or a nice lunch, with a huge menu to choose from. Pick from classic pho dishes, fragrant curries, tasty rice noodle dishes and – of course – the sides. The cuisine is considered to be pretty healthy, so you can really fill your boots at this one. Pho, 37 Hanging Ditch The Corn Exchange, M4 3TR.
4. Mi & Pho
Mi & Pho may be a little out of town in Wythenshawe, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of a visit. The lovely little spot is super cosy, and the food is actually award-winning, too. Drool over authentic dishes such as Banh Xeo, Pho and a number of salt and pepper dishes, and chow down on extras such as summer rolls packed with tofu, avo, prawns and so much more.
The menu is so extensive, we can hardly list all of our favourites, however, be sure to check out their gorgeous Banh Mi sandwiches one lunchtime. Mi & Pho, 384 Palatine Rd, Northenden, Wythenshawe, M22 4FZ.
5. NAM
Nestled by Ancoat’s Cutting Room Square, NAM is loved by locals – and it’s easy to see why. Their airy, fresh decor is unbelievably inviting, and the cocktail menu is a real treat. And that’s before we even get to the food. Their menu is served tapas-style, with a number of delicious small plates available to choose from, with a carefully curated selection of big plates, too.
Highlights include caramelised squid, their own take on Bao Buns, stewed beef and their homely bowls of Pho. NAM Manchester, Unit 2, 33 Blossom St, Ancoats, M4 6AJ.
6. Hanoi 75
Located at the bustling new Stretford Food Hall, Hanoi 75 is one of the city’s most loved Vietnamese spots, serving a concise, yet delicious menu of Viet-inspired street food. Think hefty bao buns and disco fries, alongside lighter bites such as rainbow rolls, pho and classic dumplings. Hanoi 75, Stretford Food Hall, Chester Rd, Stretford, M32 9BD.
[Featured image: Pho]