Location & Contact – Where to Find this Hidden Gem
Nestled in the bustling heart of Waterloo, Ontario, Ben Thanh is your go-to spot for an authentic Southeast Asian culinary adventure. You can find it at 36 Northfield Dr E, Waterloo, walking distance from Conestoga Mall. For pickup orders, call 519-880-9788.
The Feast Begins – A Carousel of Flavors
The Star: Phuc Kien Chow Mein
My adventure started with the Phuc Kien Chow Mein (just order by number, you don’t want to mispronounce this one!). Imagine a bed of noodles that decided to party with some seafood. Shrimp, fish, and who knows what else – a delightful and bizarre flavor mashup that makes your taste buds tango.
The Sweet Surprise: Chicken Pad Thai
My friend, the less adventurous one, went with the Chicken Pad Thai. For the uninitiated, it’s a stir-fried noodle dish that’s kind of the poster child of Thai cuisine. It was almost too good, but the sauce leaned a bit on the sweeter side – like that one friend who’s sweet but just a tad too much.
The Comfort Bowl: Vermicelli with BBQ Pork
Another friend of mine dived into the Vermicelli Bowl with BBQ Pork, Pork Balls, and a Spring Roll. This dish is like a warm hug from your favorite aunt – comforting noodles, veggies, and pork that’s seasoned to perfection. And the spring roll? Crispy, greasy love in a roll.
The Drink Trio
To wash it all down, we had a Watermelon Bubble Tea, a Kumquat Lemon with Soda, and an Avocado Smoothie. Their drink menu is like a fruit basket gone wild – so many exotic options, you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical vacation.
Ben Thanh – Not Just One
Fun fact: Ben Thanh isn’t a one-hit wonder. They’ve got siblings in Cambridge, Guelph, Burlington and Burlington. There is another K-W location on Fairway Road. Many years ago they had a location in downtown Kitchener. This restaurant has been a local favorite in Kitchener-Waterloo for ages.
Service with Speed
The staff here might not be your next best friends (minimal chit-chat), but they’re incredibly. Quick service, especially impressive given their encyclopedia-like menu.
The Vibe – Loud but Comfy
The dining area is open and can get quite noisy, but it’s comfortable. With several tables, you’re always in for a seat, no awkward waiting.
Prices – Your Wallet Won’t Cry
Expect to shell out about $14 – $18 per meal. Not too shabby for a mini culinary trip to Southeast Asia.
In Summary – Reliably Delicious
Overall, BenThanh is a solid pick. Authentic Vietnamese and Thai food that has won the hearts of locals for years. It’s like that reliable old friend – always there when you need some good food.
Craving More? Check These Out
Looking for more Viet-Thai flavors in Kitchener-Waterloo? Try these:
- Thai Bistro: A cozy spot in Belmont Village with a flair for traditional Thai dishes.
- Thai Sun: Great for those who love their Thai food with a modern twist. It’s in the Waterloo Town Square plaza.
Bon Appétit or, as they say in Thai, เพลินเพลิน!
