Set on buzzy Coldharbour Lane in Brixton, Banh Banh is a Vietnamese restaurant that celebrates the comforting ritual of eating together with loved ones. As you’d imagine, the space is designed for gathering - whether that’s a quick catch-up over cocktails or a long, lively meal with friends - filled with the scent of fresh herbs, grilled meats and dishes arriving steadily at the table.
The menu takes a broad view of Vietnamese cooking, offering plenty of choice without feeling overwhelming. It begins with smaller plates that set the tone for what follows. Crisp fried spring rolls, filled with either pork or prawn, arrive golden and hot, while a chicken and herb salad layered with shrimp brings freshness and crunch. Black sesame rice crackers add a light, snackable option, ideal alongside a first drink. From there, turn your attention to dishes designed to be shared between two or more.
A standout comes in the form of flash-grilled monkfish, marinated in turmeric, galangal and garlic, then fried with bundles of spring onion and dill. Served with rice vermicelli, peanuts and a fermented shrimp dip, it’s a dish that encourages a fair bit of hands-on dining, in the best way. While, skewers of grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf offer something richer, smoky and aromatic.
Larger plates continue that balance of bold and comforting flavours. Thick cubes of pork belly are slow-cooked in a fish sauce and coconut broth until tender, paired with marinated boiled egg for something deeply satisfying. A lighter option comes in a sweet and sour mussel and dill broth, where pineapple, okra and tomato bring brightness to the dish. As for sides, add pickled baby aubergine for sharpness, garlic green beans or seasonal vegetables with fermented bean paste, to finish.
Even the cocktail list here has a pleasingly Vietnamese twist with colourful, creative concoctions like the cilantro margarita, lifted with kumquat liqueur, alongside a jasmine martini that’s floral and delicate with jasmine liqueur.