Phung Thanh Restaurant is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious atmosphere and the opportunity to savor the traditional flavors of Northern Vietnamese cuisine. The name "Phung Thanh" is not just a term; it is a spiritual symbol of ancient Thang Long, bridging the gap between the past and the present, preserving and conveying the cultural and spiritual values of the Northern region.
The standout feature of the restaurant is not only its delectable cuisine but also its exquisite architectural blend of modern and traditional elements. The exterior is adorned with flexibility, from the boat-like curved roof to the carefully arranged plants and flowers, creating a mystical and enchanting space reminiscent of the history of the Northern region. The curved roof resembling a boat gives a feeling of returning to the feudal era of Vietnam. Every detail, from wooden cabinets to vases and patterns, creates a lively space that preserves the essence of the homeland and the stories of bygone eras.
The paintings of the phoenix, the symbol of eternal life, embody the mission of Phung Thanh – to pass down the traditional flavors through time. The restaurant is not just a place to indulge in culinary delights but also a destination for ancient cultural stories told in a familiar language, close to the contemporary generation.
Notably, the menu at Phung Thanh goes beyond mere reproduction of traditional flavors; it reflects creativity and sophistication in its variations. Each dish is meticulously designed, blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics, offering a unique culinary experience. The chefs here are not just masters of traditional recipes; they are also artistic innovators, elevating Northern Vietnamese cuisine to a high level of artistic appreciation.
The upper floor of the restaurant, with both outdoor and indoor seating, provides a diverse space for patrons to choose from. The indoor setting feels like a journey back to a glorious historical period, while the outdoor seating amidst grass and flowers brings a sense of closeness to nature.
Phung Thanh Restaurant is a luxurious destination that encapsulates the entire traditional essence of Northern Vietnamese cuisine. With over 200 exquisite dishes, I decided to sample four: clay pot braised pork, corned beef salad, assorted rolled shrimp, grilled snail sausage wrapped in banana leaves, accompanied by a glass of mixed sugarcane and pineapple juice. Despite the total cost for the meal and parking service reaching 850,000 VND (approximately 35 USD), this experience was truly worthwhile.
The restaurant appears to be designed to attract the upper class or foreign tourists eager to explore Vietnamese cuisine. For those seeking a hearty meal, alternative options may need to be considered, as each dish offers a specific quantity of food. However, it cannot be denied that the food here is genuinely delicious, and the chefs have transformed traditional Vietnamese dishes into sophisticated and high-priced culinary masterpieces.
I decided to visit Phung Thanh Restaurant after seeing numerous positive reviews on TikTok, and despite the relatively high prices, I still want to return to try more dishes. A special feature is the weekend events organized by the restaurant, featuring traditional cultural performances that recreate the atmosphere of the ancient capital during the feudal era, adding a unique and impressive touch to the overall dining experience. During my dining experience here, the beef salad was one of my initial choices. Although it was flavorful with tender beef, fresh herbs, onions, pineapple, peanuts, and various spices, overall, this dish seemed to lack a distinctive highlight.
Following that, I opted for the "thịt kho tàu," a dish I have shared numerous times on my personal blog. At this restaurant, the meat was simmered to perfection, with the fat and meat seemingly melting in the mouth. Paired with hot rice, the dish was delicious; however, I found the price slightly high compared to its uniqueness.
The grilled snail sausage wrapped in banana leaves emitted an enticing aroma, with the snail meat being fresh and crispy, complemented by a sweet and savory fish sauce dip. Yet, with only 4 pieces of snail sausage priced at 8 dollars, it may occasionally feel a bit expensive.
Lastly, the shrimp rolls with vegetables left a lasting impression with its unique combination of shrimp, coconut, pineapple, and rice flour. The flavor was delightful and brought forth a novel culinary experience.
With a mission to preserve the flavors and cultural values, Phung Thanh is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination to enjoy a premium culinary experience and, at the same time, learn about the stories and history of the beloved Northern land. This is a home for traditional values and art, where time stands still to preserve the timeless beauty!
This article has images and content 100% from me @a-alice!!
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