NYC Restaurants

Despite its central location in the heart of Williamsburg, a beautiful and unique atmosphere, and its authentic Vietnamese food, An Nhau remains a little-known secret along Bedford Avenue.  It is hard to miss—right across the street from the Bedford L train stop (Bedford & N. 7th.)  The dining room was empty on a Thursday evening, tables flickering with candlelight, illuminating the fancy latticework and bamboo décor. 

Between the front area and the glass-walled back dining area, a vintage French motor scooter sat propped beside a trailing plant, inviting the imagination to believe we had been transported to another place and time.  The back dining area almost looked like it was housed in a big antique greenhouse with vintage tiled floors—an enchanting environment for a special occasion.

The server, who was polite and unhurried, recommended a Viet Iced Coffee, which was strong and good.  To start, the Classic Pho soup was savory and whetted the appetite. ($9) The Clay Pot Simmered Catfish ($15) was cooked to black-skinned perfection, and the rice was fluffy and sweet. 

While the sit-down dinners are excellent, the Banh Mi sandwiches from the adjacent Banh Mi storefront are an amazing value at just $6— delicious and filling to boot.  The vegetarian sandwich could easily become a lunch staple for anyone in the neighborhood.  (They have for us.)  Served on a light, crispy French baguette, they come with a zingy sauce, zucchini, sliced carrots, sautéed mushrooms and plenty of fresh cilantro, leaving you full and energized.  An Nhau serves up an A+ dining experience, whether you sit down to eat or grab a bite to go.