VietNom: A culinary journey through vietnamese streets

By Anushka Manik

In the heart of the capital, there awaits a hidden gem, where the aromas of Vietnamese cuisine transports you straight to the bustling streets of Hanoi. As we stepped into VietNom, the vibrant colour palette, authentic décor, and the rhythmic sounds of traditional Vietnamese music enveloped us in an immersive experience. From the first sip of Vietnamese coffee to the last bite of a Banh Mi, every element on the menu is a carefully crafted ode to the diverse flavours that define Vietnam.

As you enter through the intimate doorway, the rustic charm of stone walls adorned with a chalk limestone texture unfolds, stretching gracefully toward the ceiling. Reclaimed brick and arched vintage mirror walls serve a dual purpose, expanding the visual space while enhancing the character of the area. Custom-crafted lights, fashioned from natural wood, form intriguing shapes above the seating areas, casting a warm and inviting glow that elevates the overall dining experience.

The cocktail bar stands as a centrepiece of elegance, with its front clad in natural limestone, embodying a timeless appeal. The backlit veneer panel houses a wine cabinet, casting an ethereal glow that transforms every visit to the bar into an immersive experience. Vintage weaved plates, mirrors, and artworks create a tapestry of charm, carefully curated to harmonise with the rustic narrative. This thoughtful accessorization pays homage to tradition while celebrating contemporary creativity.

Embarking on our culinary journey, we kicked things off with their top-tier recommendations – the succulent Chicken Chilli Dimsums and the enticing Crispy Fish. The Chicken Chilli Dimsums delighted with their mouthwatering, juicy texture that practically melted on the palate, while the Crispy Fish, perched on prawn crackers, whisked us away to the vibrant streets of Vietnam, boasting its unique blend of sweet and spicy flavours. Adding an authentic touch to the feast, we indulged in Pho with Chicken, a perfect complement to the spicy and delectable starters. The heavenly taste, enhanced by the aromas of caramelised onions and dried chillies, made it an ideal choice for the chilly day. Our culinary journey was perfectly accompanied by one of their best-sellers and the epitome of Christmas joy – Mulled Wine. With each dish telling its own flavorful story, we eagerly awaited the main course. Following the chef’s recommendation, we ventured into the beloved Chicken Mango Curry paired with Blue Pea Jasmine Rice (after pondering the unconventional combination for a good 10 minutes). To my delight, it turned out to be one of the most delicious curries I’ve ever tasted. Wrapping up our delightful experience, we savoured their Pomelo Mango Sago for dessert, concluding our culinary adventure on a perfect note.

Drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese principles of Yin and Yang, VietNom emphasises the equilibrium between the cooling and warming attributes of ingredients. Carefully chosen seasonal elements align with the Yin and Yang balance corresponding to each season, creating a holistic dining experience that nurtures both the body and soul.

Address: Ground Floor, DLF Avenue, Saket District Centre, Saket, New Delhi, 110017