Welcome to Saigon Cafe Austin
Saigon Cafe Austin, nestled in a quaint strip mall near Lake Travis, offers a delightful fusion of authentic Vietnamese and Thai cuisine. Family-owned and operated, this hidden gem has gained a loyal following for its hearty pho, featuring rich broths and fresh ingredients, including their acclaimed Pho Dau Hu with fried tofu. Guests rave about the delectable homemade egg rolls and the aromatic curry dishes that embody warmth and comfort. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff ensure every visit feels special. At Saigon Cafe, flavor meets community, making it a must-try destination in Austin’s vibrant culinary scene.
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5000 Hudson Bend Rd B, Austin, TX 78734 Hotline: (512) 547-6608
Welcome to Saigon Cafe Austin, a hidden culinary gem nestled away at 5000 Hudson Bend Rd B in the heart of Austin. This family-owned restaurant specializes in authentic Vietnamese and Thai cuisines, offering a delightful array of dishes that capture the rich flavors of Southeast Asia. When you step inside, you are greeted with a warm ambiance and friendly staff, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
One of the shining stars on the menu is their Pho, a staple Vietnamese soup that warms both the body and soul. Here, you can indulge in various selections:
- Pho Tai Chin - Noodle soup with rare eye round steak and well-done brisket ($12.00)
- Pho Hai San - Delicious seafood pho brimming with shrimp, squid, fish balls, and crab stick ($15.00)
- Pho Dau Hu - A vegetarian delight with fried tofu ($12.00)
Each bowl is crafted with a hearty, flavorful broth, often described by patrons as "pho-nominal." As Daniel G. noted in his review, the rich warmth and lingering flavors compel you to savor every sip, and if you're lucky, you might get your hands on the elusive, special Vietnamese egg rolls—“the best in town,” according to Dawn H.
For those seeking something with a Thai twist, the Tom Yum Soup is a zingy testament to flavor, featuring spicy lemongrass broth infused with fresh ingredients and your choice of protein for just $7.00. Devesh S. praised this unique dish, acknowledging its rare presence on other menus.
As a food reviewer, I appreciate when a restaurant balances quality and quantity. Saigon Cafe Austin delivers on both fronts. Each dish boasts generous portions, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. The Xoi Ga, a savory sticky rice mixed with minced chicken, and Sizzling Chicken, packed with flavor, have garnered rave reviews for their comforting and scrumptious appeal.
In addition to the food, the atmosphere at Saigon Cafe Austin is welcoming and relaxed. "Good people, good service," echoes the sentiment of many satisfied customers. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe is ideal for a cozy meal with family or a casual outing with friends.
So, the next time you're near Lake Travis craving authentic Vietnamese and Thai dishes, don’t overlook this hidden treasure tucked away from the main road. Saigon Cafe Austin is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination that invites you to immerse yourself in a culinary journey fueled by warmth, flavors, and community.
To experience this vibrant eatery, remember to call (512) 547-6608 for inquiries or check out their menu online. You won’t regret it!
They are back after renovation. Still got that tasty food. Good people. Good service. Hungry? Best play to go in town
Hidden away in a strip mall this is a great spot for a bite to eat near the lake. With authentic Vietnamese food and fantastic homemade egg rolls. Don't let the appearance discourage you.
Excellent Vietnamese as well ad Thai Food. Supersize portions and friendly service. Currys are delicious
TLDR: Delicious, definitely a hidden gem. The restaurant is hidden away off the main road so its not obvious if you're just traveling along 620. But, if you want some really great Vietnamese food you have to try it. I got the Saigon Curry Bowl today and it has this warmth (even though its a really hot day) that is just wonderful. A little lingering, full of flavor and it makes me wish I had some more. Plus it held up well going back to the house to eat. Also tried some of the Tornado Chicken my wife ordered and it is great too. The scent of the sauce for both of these seemed to linger and just made us hungrier. I don't usually like to add a review so quickly but I'd definitely recommend this place as the food is great, prices aren't too bad, and I'll probably be back in the coming weeks.
A hidden gem indeed. We have been to tens of thai places and many Vietnamese places too but we have never seen the tom yum noodle soup on any of these menus and the one at Saigon is delicious. The cashew chicken and other thai regulars are pretty good too.
Way way way overdue review! Been coming here since the very beginning years ago...and continue to frequently dine-in & get takeout (can order online now, yay!). Love the variety of the menu. Some favorites include Xoi Ga (mmm, simple yet wonderful!), "special" Vietnamese egg rolls [that I can't seem to find on the actual menu, but they know what I like], and of course any offerings of Pho. Hearty, delicious broth and great accouterments. Family owned and operated. Nothing else like it in Lake Travis area. Super nice staff, always greeted with a huge "hi!" Note: Authentic Vietnamese food. Stick with those options - 5 stars. ;)
Portions, service, options! This place has it all! Quietly tucked away you could miss it if you didn't know where you were going. But don't because the smell alone is going to keep me going back. The pho was pho-nominal as was everything else we ordered.
Decided to try this spot since I was out west anyway. The Vietnamese iced coffee was delicious. Food: Sticky chicken rice - delicious Summer rolls - good Shaken beef - good Sizzling chicken - good