Cây Tre

Buzzy and very decent Vietnamese restaurant in the thick of Soho, opened in 2012, two years after its oldest and more grand sibling Viet Grill started up at 58 Kingsland Rd in Shoreditch in east London. Another Cây Tre (translates as 'bamboo') is located at 301 Old St, also in Shoreditch. You will find a richer and yummier bowl of pho (signature Vietnamese noodle soup) elsewhere —eg Cafe East in Surrey Quays [see entry] — but the standard here is above average. Other popular items include banh cuon, barbecue ribs, lamb neck curry and chilli salt and pepper squid. As 'cheap and ethnic' food establishments go this is on the slicker and slightly pricier side — with a funky soundtrack, black and cream decor and a bar that dominaties the front entrance — but it continues to have a pull with the public. Also linked to mini chain kêu.