For whatever reason, many outstanding and authentic Vietnamese eateries tend to congregate around the Joo Chiat and Katong area.
All it means is that I am always spoiled for choice whenever I wander in the area for some Vietnamese food.
If I really had to pick the most famous spot for authentic Viet food though, it would be Long Phung Vietnamese Cuisine in Joo Chiat.
I remember those late-night suppers when my friends and I would hang out there for heart bowls of Pho.
Not only has it been around like forever, but many Vietnamese can also be seen visiting the restaurant. That is usually a stamp of approval.
And now, if you do not stay around the East, here’s a good new: Long Phung has opened a brand-new outlet in the heart of Chinatown at New Bridge Road (next to Hawker Chan at Smith Street).
Like a true-blue Vietnamese eatery, there is no fancy décor to attract customers in over in Joo Chiat.
But the Chinatown brand is more conspicuous about its branding with huge signs and many food photos.
Outside, there is huge green signboard, banner and many food display of the menu.
Speaking of the menu, it was expectedly massive, with over a hundred delicacies that could come out of the kitchen.
From your familiar Pho to lesser-known Banh Canh, there is something for you whether you want to be adventurous or not. EXCEPT, you cannot find the typical Banh Mi here – a pity.
If you love your noodles, choices include Chicken Noodle Soup ($10.50), Phnompenh Noodle Soup ($10.50), Spicy Beef Stew Noodle Soup ($10.50), to Shrimp & Crab Noodle Soup ($11.50).
I took my time to look through them, but the affordable and iconic Pho won me over. Their Pho comes in a few types, using the same soup but different ingredients.
The Pho Dac Biet ($11.90) is a “special noodle soup”, which means that apart from beef slices, the bowl also contains flank, brisket, tendon, meatballs and egg.
Pho Tai ($10.50) refers to having rare beef slices, while Pho Nam ($10.50) uses well-done beef slices. Pho Ga ($10.50) and Pho Heo ($10.50) are chicken and pork versions respectively.
I ordered the Pho Dac Biet which is really the “Special Combo Pho” combing various blend of beef cuts and ball, warm broth, and soft rice noodles, all brought together.
The broth made from simmering beef bones for hours and seasoned with a blend of herbs is the cornerstone of the dish.
I found it flavourful and robust, while slightly to the saltier side did not make me feel thirsty after finishing almost the entire bowl.
The broth can be described simply as homely. Even as it cooled down, it was clean-tasting, and I could easily empty the bowl.
As for the Pho Tai ($10.50), while the rice noodles were similarly soft and smooth, I wished that the beef were less tough (think it was the type they used).
Who could miss out on some side dishes, especially the popular Spring Rolls ($12 for 6pcs)?
Shrimps and minced pork are wrapped nicely in rice paper, which comes with a tangy dip to pair.
If you would like to try a combination of everything, then have the Spring Rolls – both fried and non-fried versions along with Prawns and sugarcane in a plate.
Long Phung has a good combination of variety and quality to keep you always coming back.
While there is always a crowd that is always there on a weekend night at Joo Chiat, perhaps you can also try out the Chinatown outlet as well.
Long Phung Vietnamese Cuisine – Chinatown
239/241 New Bridge Road, Singapore 059439
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Long Phung Vietnamese Cuisine – Joo Chiat
159 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427436
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Other Related Entries
Mrs Pho (Bussorah Street)
Co Hai Banh Mi (Beach Road)
Viet Taste (Great World)
Mrs Pho House (Takashimaya)
May Pho Culture (South Bridge Road)
* Written by Daniel Ang and Dean Ang. Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.
