Madame Vo: A New Era For Vietnamese Cuisine
When it comes to Vietnamese food, Madame Vo is a game-changer. For years, Manhattan had been without a strong variety of options when it comes to dank Vietnamese cuisine. Sure, I frequented the tasty and dependable Saigon Shack and Xe May as well. But, what other options did we have?
In 2017, Madame Vo and Hanoi House entered the scene, each with its own unique methods. Today, we'll be talking about Madame Vo. Here, the vibe is bright and lively. There are no distractions from the food.
During my last few visits, I got to try a few things on the menu. I've noticed that I keep going back for my favorites: The Madame Pho, Bun Bo Hue, and Madame Wings. I'd suggest that if you plan to go with friends, try splitting both the pho and the Bun Bo Hue. These are pretty generous servings and sharing is caring.
My personal favorite is the Bun Bo Hue. I just can't get enough of that Spicy Lemongrass broth. It gives my life meaning. The flavors are strong - almost aggressive. After devouring the whole bowl, I just feel so good inside, albeit a little dazed.
Some of my friends stand by their pho. I do love it but I can't seem to stay away from that Bun Bo Hue. The Madame Pho is beautiful, rich, and pristine. For a few extra dollars, feel free to add a serving of tender beef short rib. A gentle poke is enough to show how easily the meat falls off the bone
It won't be long until I return. And, I'll probably order the same thing again.
To start, we shared a few appetizers. The Cha Gio, or Fried Spring Rolls, were filled with Shrimp, Crab, and Pork. I liked the filling-to-wrap ratio. The stuffing was also nicely flavorful. The rolls came with a few accoutrements, including lettuce, mint, pickled vegetables, and a sweet chili sauce.
[$12 USD]
If you're looking for a healthier, non-fried option, I suggest the Goi Cuon. These Summer Rolls are just filled with Whole Shrimp, Rice Vermicelli, Lettuce, and Mint. It's served cold in soft rice paper. The resulting texture is crisp and firm.
The flavor is a bit plain on its own so enjoy it with the Peanut Dipping Sauce, which takes this roll from 0 to 100 real quick.
[$9 USD]
We also got a plate of the Madame Wings. These Spicy Chicken Wings were caramelized in a Garlic Fish Sauce. The aromas were intense on this one. 10/10 would order again.
[$14 USD]
If you're trying to satisfy your pho craving, you've probably had your eyes on the Madame Pho. First of all, it's massive. I'd have a hard time eating this by myself, especially if I opt in for the Short Rib supplement (+$5 USD). The short rib arrives bone-in and is ridiculously tender. You don't even need a knife or a fork to pull it apart. It's totally worth it.
The beef broth itself is simmered for 24 hours and comes with Rice Noodles, Angus Brisket, Eye Round, and Meatballs. The brisket comes medium rare and continues to cook as you enjoy your pho. On top, there's a generous serving of cilantro and scallions.
[$16 USD]
The pho also comes with a bowl of Cabbage, Bean Sprouts, Lime, Basil, and Jalapenos. You can add whatever you want to your pho. I like adding a little bit of everything, especially the lime, basil, and bean sprouts.
Personally, I like the Bun Bo Hue. This Spicy Lemongrass broth is a winner. There's so much flavor and the heat isn't overwhelming. I have to drink it a bit slow because the flavors are so concentrated. Be careful breathing in while drinking the soup - I end up coughing when I inhale those intense vapors.
The Bun Bo Hue comes with Vermicelli Noodles, Brisket, and Vietnamese Pork Roll (it reminds me of a seemingly healthier version of spam).
[$16 USD]
The Suon Kho, or Carmelized Spare Ribs, are braised in Coconut Juice & Pineapple. This was served in a nice clay pot. As expected, the beef is fairly juicy thanks to the fat content of the spare ribs.
The flavor was a little sweet and complimented the richness of the meat. It was addicting.
[$16 USD]