As a youngster growing up in Tulsa, my family would frequently dine at a stellar Vietnamese restaurant called Ri-Le’s. In my humble opinion, it’s one of the best places to eat if you ever find yourself in my hometown. But now that I live 1,500 miles from Ri-Le’s, I need to get my Vietnamese cuisine fix somewhere else. And thanks to our good friend Ashley, I’ve found that place!
When Ashley invited us to Le Saigon in West LA last weekend, I jumped at the opportunity. This place is great! Located at 11611 Santa Monica Blvd, the restaurant is a quaint, laid-back place with an exceptionally friendly staff. On a Friday night, we only had to wait about ten minutes for a table and while sitting outside, one of the waiters was nice enough to bring us menus and provided us with some helpful suggestions. Bonus points right there considering most waiters in this town care more about their next casting call than their customers. I also noticed that he held the door for every single patron! It’s the little things people, remember that.
Now for the food. Considering this was my first visit, I can’t speak for the entire menu but I can vouch for the #11 (Com Saigon Dac Biet: Rice with Charbroiled Pork Chop (Pork, Beef or Chicken), Shrimp and Imperial Roll). I chose to go with the beef and my belly was thankful for that decision. Also, when it comes to the Imperial Roll, I suggest the pork. It gives you the best of both worlds! And the shrimp skewer was perfectly seasoned. Lastly, everything tasted very fresh and the chili sauce was an awesome accompaniment for us spicy conasuiers.
Needless to say, I loved my first experience at Le Saigon and will be visiting again soon. I hope after reading this, you’ll heed my advice and get over there as soon as you get the chance. Le Saigon is open from 11am-10pm Tues. thru Sat. and 11am-9pm on Sundays.
I Am SO Hungry! 