Vietnamese on Victoria Street is a fantastic. The street buzzes with irate drivers, deathly slow trams and all kinds of butchers, fishmongers, Asian grocers and restaurants. Minh Tan 2 was first visited years ago on the recommendation of relatives, ‘the BEST Vietnamese restaurant in Melbourne’.
My stomach is not easily convinced, but Minh Tan 2 was a revelation. Five Spice Calamari was one dish that has been sampled every return since the inaugural visit. Dishes such as Chinese Broccoli in Oyster Sauce, Beef with Egg Noodle, Sizzling Stuffed Bean Curd in Black bean Sauce, Scallops with Ginger and Shallots, BBQ Duck, Vietnamese Spring Rolls and of course Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup have also been tried and tested over a lengthy period (mains from $12-$20). Lately more inquisitive minds have led to Sizzling Mongolian Lamb, Sweet Crap (five pounds of crap on a hotbed of succulent noodles), Jellied Duck feet, Szechwan Bean Curd and Fried Chicken with Deep Fried Garlic. Even as my recurring visits become more frequent, others order incredible looking dishes that keep me returning.
Several years ago Minh Tan 2 encouraged patrons to move over the road to the new location Minh Tan 3. Whether this was to ease the burden, or to remove some of the growing number of Caucasians frequenting the restaurant, is a matter of speculation. Minh Tan 3 has closed down because of spiralling rent, and I must admit that I have been happy returning to the original restaurant. It is packed every night. Tables are shared, the waiters are frantic, and fruit is served after the meal. It’s a great place to eat, and if you still have room Mango Pudding or Banana Fritters can top off a feast for less than 4 dollars a pop.
Feelin' Foodie | Metis Internet | Sitemap | Search | RSS | Atom