Vietnamese food is a symphony of delightfully textured, bright, and piquant flavours. From bustling street stalls to cosy family-run eateries, the country’s culinary landscape offers a rich tapestry of dishes that captivate the senses. We’ve all heard and even eaten these popular Vietnamese dishes .

Phở—a soul-warming noodle soup—holds a special place in Vietnamese hearts. Originating from the north, this world-famous dish features flat rice noodles dancing in a hearty beef stock. In Hanoi, the clear broth is adorned with medium-rare beef slices, a squeeze of lemon, and bird’s eye chili. Down south, phở Nam boasts a murkier broth, accompanied by fresh herbs like bean sprouts, basil, and mint. The secret lies in the fragrant stock infused with star anise, clove, and cinnamon.

While baguettes may have French origins, bánh mì is unmistakably Vietnamese. Picture a soft, chewy baguette filled with pickled vegetables, fresh coriander, pork belly, and pork floss.

Edinburgh, the historic Scottish capital, is renowned for its rich culinary scene. From hearty haggis to elegant afternoon teas, the city offers a diverse range of dining experiences. However, until recently, authentic Asian and Vietnamese cuisines remained somewhat elusive. Thankfully, that’s changing. Over the past year or so, traditional Asian restaurants have been making their mark, moving beyond the familiar ‘British’ Chinese and Thai options.

NAM: A Hidden Gem Near Haymarket

NAM Vietnamese Restaurant, a charming eatery nestled just a stone’s throw away from Haymarket Railway Station, is leading the charge. With its unassuming facade and intimate seating (around 35-40 people), NAM transports diners to the heart of Vietnam. Here, authenticity reigns supreme.

At NAM, the kitchen doesn’t compromise on authenticity. The chefs draw inspiration from family recipes passed down through generations, every dish reflects the essence of its origin. The cosy interior of NAM invites you to linger. Although narrow, the use of the large wall mirror makes the space feel brighter and larger.

The Menu Unveiled

NAM’s menu reads like a culinary adventure. Amidst the Noodle Dishes, Rice Dishes, and House Specials, two lesser-known gems stand out: Xoi Ga (Lotus Chicken) and Com Chien (Jasmine rice with egg). These dishes may not be as familiar as Pho or Banh Mi, but they promise delightful surprises.

Spring Rolls: A Must-Try

Before diving into the main courses, start with NAM’s spring rolls. Here are the highlights:

1. Goi Cuon (£7): Fresh spring rolls filled with your choice of chicken and prawn or tofu, shredded lettuce, and mint. Wrapped in delicate rice paper, these rolls come with a choice of peanut sauce or Nuoc Mam dressing.

2. Cha Gio (£8.90): Fried spring rolls with minced pork, rice vermicelli, shitake, and dried shrimps. The crispy exterior gives way to a savoury filling, served alongside Nuoc Mam dressing.

Gio Cuon: A Symphony of FlavoUrs

The Gio Cuon spring rolls, filled with chicken and prawn, offer a delicate balance of tastes. The tender chicken brings a savoury note, while the sweet and briny prawns add a seafood freshness. Crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs complete the ensemble, creating a refreshing blend of textures. The light rice paper wrapper provides a satisfying chewiness, perfectly complementing the filling. Dip them in the tangy, slightly sweet sauce for a harmonious experience.

Cha Gio: Umami Explosion

The Cha Gio fried spring rolls with minced pork are equally enticing. Each bite reveals umami richness from the pork, expertly balanced with hints of garlic, mushroom, and the saltiness of dried shrimp. The crispy exterior yields to a savoury filling, leaving you craving more. It’s a symphony of flavours—deeply satisfying and slightly salty.

Banh Mi, the traditional Vietnamese baguette, is more than just a sandwich—it’s a flavour-packed experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you choose succulent BBQ pork or tender chicken, this hefty baguette promises to satisfy your cravings.

The Hearty Baguette

At £9.90, Banh Mi is a substantial meal in itself. No need to order anything else—the generous portions will leave you fully satisfied. As you take your first bite, the sweet and savoury notes of the BBQ pork (or chicken) dance on your palate. But that’s just the beginning.

The freshness of shredded lettuce and fragrant coriander provides a delightful contrast to the rich meat. Each bite balances the hearty flavours, creating a harmonious blend. A touch of sriracha sauce adds a slow, fiery heat that ignites the back of your palate. It’s the perfect complement to the succulent meat and fresh greens. Cooling things down, the creamy mayo sauce balances the overall flavour profile. Creaminess meets spice, creating a well-rounded experience.

Moving beyond Banh Mi, let’s explore another Vietnamese classic:

Beef Pho (£13.90)

An aromatic bone broth infused with toasted spices sets the stage for this comforting noodle soup. Here’s what makes it special:

• Rich Beef Broth: The savoury beef broth envelops tender slices of beef, creating a meaty and subtly sweet combination.

• Soft Rice Noodles: The noodles soak up the flavours, providing a satisfying texture.

• Fresh Coriander and Spring Onion: These bright ingredients add depth and freshness to each spoonful.

Beef Pho is more than a soup—it’s an umami-rich experience that warms your soul. Whether you’re savouring Banh Mi or slurping up Beef Pho, Vietnamese cuisine offers layers of textures and aromas that leave a lasting impression.

THIT KHO TAU

Thit Kho Tau (£14.90) is a Vietnamese culinary gem that deserves a spotlight. Imagine tender chunks of pork belly, slowly braised in a caramel sauce infused with spices, and served alongside red onion and rice.

Thit Kho Tau is all about patience. The pork belly undergoes a slow cooking process, allowing it to absorb the rich flavours of its surroundings. Here’s what makes it exceptional:

1. SavoUry-Sweet Sauce

• Caramelised Sugar: The base of the sauce is caramelised sugar, which lends a deep, sweet richness.

• Fish Sauce: A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, fish sauce adds umami and depth.

• Garlic: Fragrant garlic infuses the sauce with its aromatic essence.

• Coconut Water: The secret ingredient! Coconut water balances the flavours, creating a harmonious blend.

2. Melt-in-Your-Mouth Pork Belly

The slow braising process transforms the pork belly into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth delight. Each bite reveals layers of succulence and flavour.

3. Balanced Taste Profile

• Salty: The fish sauce and caramel provide a savoury foundation.

• Sweet: Caramelised sugar and coconut water contribute sweetness.

• Umami: The pork belly itself adds umami richness.

• Garlic and Earthy Undertones: These subtle notes enhance the overall experience.

Thit Kho Tau wouldn’t be complete without sticky rice. The combination elevates the dish, creating a satisfying meal that lingers on your palate.

The restaurant exudes a laid-back, student-friendly vibe. Couples, friends, and families all find their place here. Dishes arrive promptly, and the service is friendly. However, my only quibble? The wooden chopsticks. While cleaned diligently, I’d prefer disposable ones for hygiene.

Vietnamese cuisine weaves together sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements. All these dishes embody this delightful fusion, leaving a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to indulge.

Next time you’re at a Vietnamese eatery, don’t miss out on any of these dishes - it’s a journey worth taking!

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT NAM

• They cater for vegetarians and gluten free

• Disabled access from street and the restaurant is all one level however there is no disabled toilet available (toilets are downstairs)

• They are not dog friendly

• Reservations are available

NAM, 46A Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5LA www.facebook.com/NAMvietnameserestaurant

My Spoon Award : Silver Spoon 8/10

I was invited by NAM to review their menu.

Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk