There are not many places in the capital where you can experience an authentic taste of Vietnam. But you might not need others when you have Hoi An at Shangri-La hotel Qaryat Al Beri.
We are met with a smile by the friendly waitress who leads us through the restaurant to our table. We appreciate the intricate attention to detail in the décor, with ornaments including vases and swords, and paintings from Vietnam lining the walls. A series of fans hang above our heads and wooden beams line the ceiling.
For indecisive dinners, or those keen to experience the subtle spicing and fresh flavours of traditional Vietnamese cuisine in many dishes, there are a range of set menus, including a specials. If you’re not in the mood for a set menu, you can mix it up with the à la carte options.
Ordering for a group? The tasting platter includes the chef’s selection of Vietnamese specialties including crispy lobster ravioli, Hoi An crispy rolls, chicken sausages, shrimp rice paper rolls and a crunchy papaya salad fish sauce. The platter arrives neatly presented and each dish is lovingly prepared.
The sautéed duck breast comes with sweet onions, capsicum, basil and is doused with a sticky black pepper sauce. Together with the sautéed mixed vegetables and the free bowl of rice, this is a hearty, flavourful and delicious dish. The duck is sautéed to perfection and there is no fat or gristle on the plate.
It is difficult to find faults in the dining experience at Hoi An. if you’re looking for a true taste of Vietnam, this gem is worth exploring.