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| - Just as good, if not better than Lang Van, a dollar or two cheaper, with (gasp) less obsessive service.
So my favorite dish at LV is the Banh Xeo. You know, turmeric pancake, shitakes and tofus and sprouts, mound of herbs, bowl of fish-saucy dressing. The chef at BT makes it slightly differently; its thicker, more crepe-like, substantial, there's a hint of coconut (awesome), presentation is a little easier. Better, in other words. Wow.
Dau hu is stellar too. There may not be any pho options for us veggies at either LV or Ben Thanh, but this'll do. Huge steaming bowl of tamarind broth, tofu, noodles, various delectable veggies, tomatoes, sprigs of cilantro. Very acidic (watch out weak tummys) but so flavorful.
The specials (pineapple fried rice with whatever, spinach and garlic whatever, etc) change rarely and are exactly the same as they are at their sister restaurant. But the menu mainstays are executed slightly differently, and thus far, I've enjoyed every change. There are also vials of additional additives (fish sauce, vinegar) sitting on the table that are absent at LV. Interesting, and awesome.
Plus, seriously, who can resist staring hypnotically into a beautifully kept salt water fish tank while awaiting their take-out order? Not I...
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