Nestled on a tranquil, tree-lined street in District 1, a shophouse turned Vị Quê Kitchen, captures the essence of a traditional Vietnamese countryside in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Celebrating sustainable gastronomy, Vị Quê, meaning ‘a taste of home’, reimagines regional dishes with a plant-based focus. Diners are invited to relax in a serene atmosphere, thoughtfully designed with the number 8 to symbolise infinity, while gentle jazz melodies complete the soothing experience.
A taste of ‘home’
In 2021, Vo Thi Bich Thuan founded Vị Quê Kitchen after embracing a vegan lifestyle. Following a diagnosis of a stomach ailment, she transitioned from a meat-based diet to vegetarianism. During her recovery, her mother lovingly prepared traditional Vietnamese vegetarian dishes, leading her to discover that plant-based meals could be just as flavourful.One of the first dishes her mother made was a vegetarian version of bun bo Hue. Using only spices and vegetables like pineapple and lemongrass, she crafted a bowl of noodles that captured the essence of the famous bun Hue without any meat.
“There is always one place that calls us back - the countryside, where we were born and where our hearts return as we journey through life. We never forget the meals our mothers made, the fresh vegetables and fruits our fathers carefully grew in the garden. Those simple dishes, made with love, shaped our memories.” Thuan shared her inspiration.
A space for wellbeing
For vegetarian owners Thuan and her husband, Viral Desai, the taste is the cornerstone of success, making it the heart of every dish. Consistency is key to creating a perfect taste to create a perfect taste, consistency is key. Each new dish undergoes a month of daily preparation to ensure a perfect balance of flavours before earning its place on the menu.Recognised with a Bib Gourmand in the MICHELIN Guide Vietnam 2024, Vị Quê Kitchen invites diners to savour the pure Vietnamese flavours of its plant-based creations and not only to savour the pure Vietnamese flavours of its plant-based creations but also to be inspired toward healthier choices. Through its thoughtfully curated dishes and vibrant yet serene setting, you are encouraged nourishment for both body and mind, fostering a deeper sense of well-being.
The space itself offers a warm yet vibrant atmosphere, beginning with an open bar serving unique drinks. The second floor is dedicated to creative activities, like book clubs and flower arranging, as well as a private dining area perfect for group gatherings or romantic dinners. Toward the back, a lush, airy green space, bathed in natural light, provides a refreshing retreat after a long day.
Vị Quê Kitchen brings vibrant Vietnamese flavours to the spotlight, dishing up classics like pho, bun bo Hue, and mi quang. But it’s not just about the usual suspects. Vị Quê Kitchen is on a mission to prove that veggie food can be just as tasty. She and her partner don’t just serve up meals – they’re showing off a whole lifestyle, making plant-based eating fun and easy to work into your daily routine. Even your night out is sorted, with organic veggie-friendly wines and cocktails available on the menu.
What to order?
Blending fresh vegetables, fruits, and signature Vietnamese spices, Vị Quê Kitchen crafts innovative vegetarian dishes while honouring the authentic flavour of Vietnam. The menu offers a creative fusion of flavours from the country's northern, central, and southern regions, each dish evoking the comforting taste of home.Start your morning with options like com tam (broken rice), mi quang noodles, or bun Hue. For lunch or dinner, enjoy a family-style meal with dishes like perilla-leaf sour soup, braised monk fruit mushroom stems with ginger, Vị Quê's crispy square spring rolls, and baked tomatoes stuffed with mushrooms.
Try desserts and drinks that bring back Vietnamese childhood memories of a long day of studying, with treats such as kumquat tea, tamarind ice, coconut ice cream, and steamed banana with coconut milk.
First time at the place? Don’t fret. Ask for favourite flavours and preferences. The team will recommend dishes that align with your preferences. For instance, if you enjoy crispy textures, why not try the restaurant’s signature nem vuong (crispy spring rolls)?
For those seeking something out of the ordinary, Vị Quê Kitchen also offers a diverse menu of vegetarian dishes, sure to surprise and delight. Nearly every dish is paired with its own unique sauce, so the chefs and servers invest significant time in mastering the menu, ensuring they can present each dish and its nuances with confidence.
Pro tip: If you're new to Vietnamese cuisine, the owners suggest trying dishes with “Vị Quê” in the name, like Com Tam Vị Quê, Bun Vị Quê, Sup Vị Quê, Goi Vị Quê, or Lau Vị Quê.
Illustration image: © Vị Quê Kitchen
Bib Gourmand • Inspectors’ favourites for good value
