Buzz
Enjoying Chinese rice, marrying a Japanese spouse, living in a Western-style home - these three criteria are humorously considered the keys to savoring life. Finding a Japanese spouse may be challenging, and living in a Western-style home might not be easy, but relishing delicious Chinese rice in Saigon is effortlessly achievable.
With two branches, one located on the ground floor of the AB building in District 1, and the other at 195-197 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan District, San Fu Lou is undoubtedly a must-visit spot for Saigon's food enthusiasts, at least once a week.
San Fu Lou is the true destination that Saigon's food aficionados must visit at least once a week.
Established by two proprietors not originally from Guangdong, but fueled by love and passion for the cuisine, they've transformed this place into an authentic Guangdong kitchen. You'll quickly understand why it's jokingly called the 'Red Lantern Street' as the space is adorned with red lanterns - not just symbolizing luck but also transporting diners to the ambiance of modern Hong Kong.
Open from 7 am until 2 am, San Fu Lou welcomes you at any time of the day to relish your favorite dim sum, soft and fluffy char siu buns, or handcrafted stir-fried noodles with succulent meats. It's a place worth your weekly visit.
San Fu Lou is a massive attraction for Saigonese, even for the most discerning palates.
Open from 7 am to 2 am - The spot where you can verify Saigon's claim of being a city that never sleeps.
Start your morning here with a cup of tea. Order a pot of lychee tea and some dim sum delights like shrimp dumplings, steamed buns, siu mai, or rice rolls - a perfect Cantonese-style breakfast. For lunch, indulge in rice, stir-fried dishes, main courses like wine-infused rolled chicken, mixed noodles, or even salads for a delightful meal.
Steamed char siu buns are a great choice for breakfast.
Or go for barbecue pork buns, rice rolls, and dim sum.
But the most intriguing experience is coming here in the evening for the roast meats. Opt for the mixed roast platter with honey-glazed char siu, roasted duck with hoisin sauce, or roast chicken with tamarind sauce. According to the restaurant, the duck is roasted in an oven fueled by applewood, historically used for royal feasts. The duck's meat, thin and crispy skin, golden and shiny, is expertly sliced for an enticing presentation.
Roast duck is one of the specialties here, greatly cherished alongside the flavorful char siu.
The traditional formula for roasting duck is still employed, claiming to have once 'served ancient kings and emperors.'
Through the glass, you can witness the chef expertly carving the duck meat.
Char siu meat is coated with a special sauce before being roasted over a red charcoal stove or wood-fired oven. The lingering aroma of charcoal and the sauce on the crispy skin of char siu or roast duck provides a uniquely enticing flavor during every bite.
The flavors of the roasted dishes here are exceptionally unique, unlike anywhere else in Saigon.
In a cozy and comfortable ambiance, with many beautiful viewpoints, such as the first-floor location next to the glass door or the second floor where you can both dine and observe the lively activities below, it's quite enjoyable. Another intriguing aspect for many visitors is the restaurant's sophisticated name - San Fu Lou, which translates to 'Three Blessings' and reflects the Cantonese belief that food and dining are blessings.
Visiting San Fu Lou on Phan Xich Long at any time of the day, the place is always bustling with customers, perhaps due to its convenient front-facing location and the impressive street view, especially at night. Cantonese dishes, especially grilled and stir-fried ones, enjoyed in the Saigon night not only satiate your hunger but also allow you to indulge in the romantic charm of Saigon through the restaurant's impressive glass windows.
San Fu Lou has two branches, one on the ground floor of the AB building in District 1 and the other at 195-197 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan District. If you plan to visit tonight, it's advisable to make a reservation to ensure you have a seat with a beautiful view of Saigon's night.
San Fu Lou currently offers exclusive perks for those who make advance reservations. Check out the promotional details here.
Reviewer's Take: Maxo
