THE LUNCH LADY || Authentic Vietnam Food Stall Makes Its North American Debut in Vancouver
Tucked behind an unassuming alleyway in Phuong Đa Kao, District 1, and away from the scooters and traffic on the main road is where you will find Mrs. Nguyen Thi Thanh, also known as the Lunch Lady.
This authentic food stall draws foodies and celebrities from around the world including celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain. The Lunch Lady distinguishes herself with a unique menu system; it changes daily for seven days, with each day of the week featuring a different signature bowl. Each bowl is expertly assembled in front of your eyes with generous amounts of meat, seafood, herbs, and side vegetables added into the iconic soup bases.
A visit to the famous food stall is on every foodie bucket’s list, but Vancouverites need not wait until they can hop on a plane to Vietnam to enjoy this delectable cuisine — The Lunch Lady is now open for dine-in service on Commercial Drive in Vancouver.
“Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Once you love it, you love it forever.”
Bún-Mắm. Prawns, squid, crispy pork, vermicelli noodles, umami rich fermented fish broth.
JOURNEY TO VANCOUVER
The Lunch Lady’s North American expansion to Vancouver was not an overnight thought; this was a process that took years to bring to fruition. After a humble bowl of noodle soup crafted by the Lunch Lady herself, local Vancouver restaurateur Michael Tran fell head over heels for her cooking – so much so that, each year, he would make it a point to return to that same alleyway and even share this incredible culinary experience with his mother Victoria Tran, who is also a restaurateur of over 30 years and the owner of Vancouver’s Five Elements Cafe. The Trans knew that they wanted to help realize the Lunch Lady’s dream to share authentic Vietnamese flavours with the world. Finally, after eight years of friendship and collaboration, the first branch of their North American expansion will be in Vancouver.
Thit Nuóng - Pork Skewers marinated in shallots, garlic and lemongrass.
Mì Gà Rán Giòn. Slow braised duck, gai lan, egg noodles, five spiced duck broth.
ON THE MENU
Lunch Lady Vancouver will be offering the classic daily noodle rotations (bún bò huế, bún thái, bánh canh cua and more) that are famously served at the original Vietnam location. Their traditional Vietnamese brunch is available from 11 AM to 3 PM daily. The dinner menu will feature dishes that include a variety of shareable “family style” bites made with authentic and local ingredients. Additionally, the bar program will feature a freshly minted cocktail menu that reintroduces some classic drinks with a Southeast Asian twist.
We had the pleasure of trying some tasty cocktails and must say that they are perfect for the toasty summer weather we’ve been having! Make sure to drop by vibrant Commercial Drive to experience the international sensation that is The Lunch Lady.
Mì Xào Tỏi - Garlic Fried Noodles. Egg noodles sautéed in garlic xo butter, topped with aged parmigiano reggiano
The Trà Dá Tea-ni - a refreshing floral sipper that packs a deceptive punch
