Flavourful with no-frills attached is what this newest Pan-Asian eatery Banh Mi & Wok is all about
Text by Namita Gupta
Banh is the Vietnamese word for sandwich bread; wok means a large, versatile round-bottomed cooking vessel, which is used for stir fry. And that’s how Banh Mi & Wok, a Quick Service Restaurant, with deliciously creative authentic Pan-Asian Union was born. The fresh and vibrant restaurant has its own character and essence and will find a place in the hearts of every well travelled foodie filled with passion for food and life. Do not expect any fuss, extra frills or all the drama that unfolds alongside the food that is served at most restaurants. It’s the food that does the talking here. Quick, flavourful, healthy and on-the-go Asian oriental cuisine served in a fun, casual dining style. Founder and owner and an avid biker who is often spotted taking to the highways on his Harley Davidson, Salamath Sharieff and his partners have brought out this Asian haven with their dream team headed by Chef Arup Kakati.
Must try: The menu covers specials from China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. After placing my order on the touch screen computerised menu, I started off with a Mixed Mushroom & Glass Noodles Salad, that has shitake, white, black fungus and button mushroom. Another signature dish from the Small Bites section is Stir Fry Tempura Chilli Prawns. They are crispy, piquant and bang on flavours. Also try the Sweet chilli lotus stem, bowls of fragrant Asian curries with rice, or stir fries that hit the spot perfectly. Wash it down with bubble tea or Vietnamese style cold coffee that comes in the original bottles.
Ritz loves: I loved the Sloppy Viet Bao, made with grounded lamb meat, red curry paste and hot basil. The baos are not made with the regular flour, but lotus seed flour for an authentic touch. I loved how the flavours, textures and the aromas intermingle and form the perfect blend of heavenly taste. The Sambal is another stir fried dish with shrimps that goes perfectly with egg fried rice or noodles on the side.
You cannot leave without taking a bite of the Dau Phu Banh Mi, spicy fried tofu with chilli mayo. There are also chicken, lamb meat and prawn Banh Mi’s on the menu. Give in to your sweet cravings with the delicately flavoured and mildly sweet Tab Tim Krob, jellied water chestnuts in sweetened coconut milk with crushed ice.
Where: Banh Mi & Wok, 295 & 296, 100 Ft Rd, Indiranagar, Bengaluru.
Call: + 91 89712 22220.
Meal for two: Rs 800.
