Sông Quê Phở Bar: A Novel Chapter for East London’s Vietnamese Favourite
After nearly 25 years of serving Londoners, the beloved Vietnamese restaurant Sông Quê has expanded with a new offshoot, Sông Quê Phở Bar, on Commercial Street. This marks a significant moment for the established eatery, known for its regular weekend queues, and raises the question: can the magic be replicated elsewhere?
A Focused Menu: Phở and Familiar Flavours
Unlike the original Sông Quê, the Phở Bar boasts a streamlined menu concentrating on phở – Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup. Alongside this, diners can enjoy a selection of small plates from the original café, including summer rolls, green papaya salad, grilled lamb chops, and banh khot cupcakes.
Location, Location, Location: A Competitive Stretch
The new location on Commercial Street places Sông Quê Phở Bar amongst other popular dining destinations. It’s directly opposite Xian Biang Biang Noodles and close to the Thai hotspot Som Saa. However, the area, situated between Aldgate and Shoreditch, can be challenging for attracting passing trade. Previous ventures on the same site, such as The Pearly Queen and a Turkish restaurant called The Space, haven’t found lasting success.
Early Impressions: A Quiet Start and Authentic Flavours
Initial reports suggest a somewhat quiet opening, with the restaurant being virtually empty on one Sunday earlier this month. Despite the lack of crowds, the staff were described as bright and welcoming. The focus remains on delivering authentic flavours, with a phở broth described as “remarkably meaningful,” rich with star anise and served with thinly sliced beef and al dente noodles.
Beyond the Phở: Small Plates and Grilled Delights
The small plates menu offers a range of enticing options, including grilled beef wrapped in betel leaves with peanuts and mint, spicy tempura squid, and grilled lamb chops with a vinegar-based dipping sauce. The prawn cupcakes, described as egg and cornflour moulded into baskets, likewise receive a positive mention.
The Future of Vietnamese Cuisine in London
Sông Quê Phở Bar’s opening reflects a growing trend of established restaurants expanding their reach with specialized offshoots. This allows them to cater to specific demands and potentially attract a wider audience. The success of this venture will likely depend on its ability to maintain the quality and authenticity that have made the original Sông Quê a beloved institution.
The Rise of Regional Vietnamese Cuisine
While phở remains a cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine, London diners are increasingly seeking out regional specialties. Restaurants are responding by offering dishes like bun bo hue (a spicy beef noodle soup from Hue) and exploring lesser-known culinary traditions. This diversification caters to a more adventurous palate and elevates the overall Vietnamese dining experience.
The Importance of Location and Community
As Sông Quê Phở Bar’s location suggests, visibility and community engagement are crucial for success. Restaurants in competitive areas need to actively attract customers through marketing, social media, and building relationships with local residents. A strong sense of community can foster loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.
Sông Quê Phở Bar Details
- Location: 44 Commercial Street, London E1
- Contact: 020-4585 0341
- Price: From about £25 a head, plus drinks & service
FAQ
What is Sông Quê Phở Bar known for?
Sông Quê Phở Bar specializes in phở, the traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, alongside a selection of small plates from the original Sông Quê restaurant.
Where is Sông Quê Phở Bar located?
It’s located at 44 Commercial Street, London E1.
Is it tough to get a table?
Early reports suggest it’s currently easy to get a table, but this may change as the restaurant gains popularity.
What other restaurants are nearby?
It’s located opposite Xian Biang Biang Noodles and close to Som Saa.
What is the price range?
Expect to spend around £25 per person, plus drinks and service.
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