The Great Outdoors

An Choi Opens Its Back Patio

Photo: Melissa Hom

Once the rain clears, you’ll want to know that Vietnamese upstart An Choi has opened its back patio. Partner Huy Bui is building communal seating, and his brother Tuan tells us that new dishes are being added to the menu. First off, Bun Thit Nuong Cha Gio consists of grilled lemongrass pork and a crispy spring roll over vermicelli. Then there are weekend specials such as Hanoi-style catfish over noodles; Banh Xeo, a crêpe of pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mushrooms over fish sauce; and Bo Luc Lac, wok-seared sirloin and French fries over a bed of watercress, tomatoes, and pickled onions, with a salt, pepper, and lime dip for the sirloin and a chili aïoli for the fries. With a liquor license still possibly three to five weeks away, the Buis are also working on adding condensed-milk smoothies. Good morning, Vietnam!

An Choi Opens Its Back Patio