Joo Chiat Road has emerged as a compelling destination for lovers of
Vietnamese cuisine.
Within the stretch of Joo Chiat Road, between Joo Chiat Place and Dunman Road,
you can find a myriad of half a dozen Vietnamese restaurants.
We have explored at least half of them on #hungrywackyeats and will add
another to the lot with a visit to Ky Anh Quan, discreetly nestled on
the ground floor amidst the historical shophouses.
Location
Despite its unassuming facade, this Vietnamese gem deserves recognition,
especially considering its location on the ‘seedier’ side of Joo Chiat Road,
flanked by nightclubs. It’s noteworthy that Vietnamese patrons frequent the
restaurant, which often serves as a reliable indicator of its authenticity and
quality.
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With a revamped interior boasting a nostalgic touch reminiscent of the 90s,
the ambience at Ky Anh Quan sets the stage for an authentic dining experience.
Food
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The menu for the resturant is super thick. It is difficult to choose the food
to sample. These are some of the dishes we tried.
Special Pho
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We opted for the Special Beef Noodles instead of the conventional pho. This
delectable bowl boasted slices of beef and beef balls, capturing the essence
of authentic pho while offering a delightful medley of beef textures.
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Fresh Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon Tom Thit)
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The fresh Spring Rolls with pork and shrimp were our perennial favourite dish
to order in a Vietnamese restaurant. For this rendition, we had mixed
feelings. While the minty leaves added a refreshing note, the tough texture of
the skin left a bit to be desired.
Fried Clam with Garlic ( Ngheu Xao Toi)
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The Fried clam with garlic was an absolute treat. The clams were impeccably
coated in a savoury garlic sauce and adorned with crispy pork lard, creating a
harmonious symphony of flavours that delighted the palate.
Grilled Pork with Rice Noodles (Bun Cha Ha Noi)
Finally, we had grilled Pork with Rice Noodles. Pairing the grilled pork with
the fresh herbs presented an enchanting minty profile that was distinctly
Vietnamese. Though, we couldn’t help but wish for a more generous serving of
meat, as we found ourselves with an abundance of rice noodles after finishing
the pork.
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Verdict
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Ky Anh Quan delivers a commendable Vietnamese dining experience. While it may
not claim the throne among the finest Vietnamese restaurants we’ve encountered
on this stretch, it remains a worthy contender and a decent choice for a
Vietnamese meal in the vicinity.
The restaurant does draw a crowd rapidly during weekend dinners, so do arrive
early arrival to secure a spot.