The Vietnamese

I'm really not sure what to make of this place and you definitely don't come here for the decor. Musty carpeted floor is reminiscent of what one might imagine to be going on in the neighbouring seedy venues. We had the Goi Cuon, Wonton Mi xa xiu and Pho Bo Vien. I was really happy with the banh Trang( rice paper) that is essentially the Cuon. It wasn't soft and soggy like how most places around serve it, in fact it was quite firm and chewy, really exactly how it's meant to be. The prawns were plum and flavoursome and the bean sauce was delicious, just needed more crushed peanuts. The wonton Mi xa xiu was ok too. The noodles were nice and still a little chewy and the xa xiu was delicious. All in all the food was ok and the price was very reasonable for the food we ordered.

Not authentic Vietnamese for the most part of the menu. More like Australian Chinese. Salt and pepper quail was really nice but the sizzling beef was terrible. So much corn starch and lacking flavour. My friend had rice paper rolls which were fine but the chicken Pho was not authentic flavours. Also ordered a coconut water which was so sweet with sugar. When asking if they added sugar I was told it is out of a packet. For $5 for a small glass you would expect actual coconut water.

*Not The Vietnamese Restaurant as it was before-pandemic* The owner of this restaurant has not changed as verified by the Australian Business Registry query. More importantly, the service staff are as warm yet efficient as before. However, the quality and value of the food/menu has drastically changed beyond what would be expected from post-pandemic necessities. I have it on excellent authority and from tasting the dishes, that there is a new chef at the restaurant, one that seemingly cuts corners to deliver a product without regard to the 'soul' this previously excellent place one had. As a customer of The Vietnamese Restaurant for over 5 years, it is with a heavy heart that I no longer recommend this place as an Asian restaurant worthy of consideration. I certainly hope that the 30+ years owner of The Vietnamese Restaurant does what is necessary to prevent this Brisbane icon from going out with a whimper.