Tucked away in Glasgow’s bustling West End, Non Viet is a haven for those who crave authentic Vietnamese flavors. From fragrant bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches, this gem of a restaurant offers an array of dishes that showcase the vibrant and fresh essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Having heard rave reviews, I finally had the chance to experience Non Viet for myself, and it was a meal worth writing about.
Here’s a taste of what makes Non Viet a must-visit for foodies in Glasgow.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
The first thing that struck me as I walked into Non Viet was the welcoming and cozy atmosphere. The décor is simple yet inviting, with warm lighting and touches of traditional Vietnamese elements that transport you straight to the streets of Hanoi or Saigon. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends or even a casual date night.
Starters that Pack a Punch
To kick off my meal, I opted for the Vietnamese Spring Rolls. Wrapped in delicate rice paper and filled with fresh shrimp, vermicelli, herbs, and crunchy vegetables, these rolls were the epitome of freshness. The accompanying peanut dipping sauce added a creamy richness that tied everything together beautifully.
Shereen’s Tip: If you’re a fan of crispy textures, don’t miss the Crispy Vegeterian Spring Rolls—they’re golden, crunchy, and bursting with flavor.
The Main Event: Pho and More
Of course, no trip to a Vietnamese restaurant is complete without sampling a bowl of Pho, and Non Viet’s version did not disappoint. The broth was rich and aromatic, simmered to perfection with just the right balance of spices, herbs, and umami depth. I chose the Pho Bo (beef pho), which came with tender slices of beef, rice noodles, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a wedge of lime for that extra zing.
The flavors were clean yet complex, and each spoonful brought a comforting warmth that made it the ultimate dish for a chilly Glasgow evening.
For those who prefer something heartier, the Bun Cha Gio Thit Nuong—a vermicelli noodle salad topped with grilled and crispy spring rolls—was an explosion of textures and flavors. The tender, charred combined with the crispy rolls, fresh greens, and tangy fish sauce dressing made this dish a standout.
Banh Mi Heaven
I couldn’t leave without trying the Banh Mi, Vietnam’s famous sandwich. Non Viet offers several versions, and I opted for the Banh Mi Thit Nuong—grilled, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayo all stuffed into a perfectly crispy baguette. The bread was just the right amount of crunchy on the outside and soft inside, and the fillings were flavorful with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
Shereen’s Take: If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal, the banh mi at Non Viet is one of the best I’ve had in Glasgow.
Sweet Endings: Desserts and Drinks
To finish the meal, I couldn’t resist trying the Vietnamese Iced Coffee. Made with strong, dark Vietnamese coffee and sweetened condensed milk, it was the perfect balance of bitter and sweet. It’s rich and creamy, making it the ideal pick-me-up.
For dessert, the Coconut Rice Pudding was a light and refreshing way to end the meal. Creamy with a hint of coconut, it wasn’t overly sweet, making it a nice palate cleanser after the bold flavors of the main dishes.
Non Viet is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cuisine or a seasoned fan, the fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and warm atmosphere make this spot a must-visit in Glasgow. From the fragrant pho to the crispy banh mi, each dish is crafted with care, delivering an authentic taste of Vietnam right to your plate.
If you’re in the West End and craving something deliciously different, make sure to stop by Non Viet. Trust me, it’s a meal you won’t soon forget.