When I'm spending a few nights anywhere away from home, I like to check out somewhere new to eat a good meal. I've been in Nanaimo a few days now and before even coming out, I started scoping out places online to see what's maybe popular or had some good reviews. In Nanaimo, this was one of the most highly regarded places. This is Saigon Kitchen. The place itself doesn't exactly stand out as it's tucked away behind other buildings. The exterior is simple and the interior is very warm and welcoming. From the moment I walked in the staff was very friendly. I knew exactly what I was getting before even arriving here. My choices for the evening were prawn salad rolls and a Vietnamese crepe. I was served by a Vietnamese lady whom, after a little socializing with her, learned she moved here from Vietnam, her brother is the owner and chef, and she is the manager of the restaurant. When I ordered the crepe her immediate reaction was "Yum!" and she proceeded to tell me how much she loves crêpes and is glad to have it on the menu. Nonetheless, I expected something amazing! I wasn't disappointed. I began with the rolls as an appetizer. They're large in size, but they aren't crazily filling - perfect start prior to the main dish. The salad rolls consisted of a thin rice paper, tightly wrapping fresh romaine lettuce, bean sprouts, warm sticky rice and prawns. On their own, it may not be the most flavourful, though they are lightly seasoned with herbs - it's the sauce that makes it spectacular! A very delicious peanut sauce was served with this, and it's such a perfect combination. As the main dish I ordered the Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crepe). I was not sure what to expect, but it's a popular dish in Vietnam and sounded great so I couldn't resist. The crepe was brought as a flavourful, slightly buttery folded rice pancake, packed with bean sprouts, chicken and prawns. The rice pancake is pan fried, and was very crispy, which is fantastic! I don't think a soggy crepe would be the way to go. The goodies inside are simple, which is expected of these crêpes, and I like that. Simple is better. The inside is brought to life as they are seasoned with herbs and fish sauce. For myself, I like that the fish sauce is just the right amount so it isn't overpowering. The manager of the restaurant also served me a chili sauce, which she explained was her mother's own recipe and since she brought it into the restaurant, it has been very popular. As I enjoy spicy sauces and pastes, I essentially caked my crepe with it. it had just the right amount of spice for a good kick to the food, without actually taking away the meal's taste. The crepe was also served with some leafy greens and a light and sweet vinaigrette, which was nicely complimenting. At the end of the day, I would definitely come back and try something different. The menu is extensive and the price is right. It also seems to be a local favourite based on the conversations some of the customers were having with the staff. There are only a few Vietnamese restaurants in the area, and this family-owned restaurant is a great one! Check out the restaurant here: http://saigon-kitchen.ca/
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