Truc Lam

Description:

• Truc Lam means "Bamboo Forest" and refers to an old Chinese legend about travelers lost in the woods (the owner will patch the story together for you). On the second floor of new Maxim minihotel, Truc Lam serves up classic Vietnamese cuisine and offers special imports on occasion, like salmon from Norway or beef from New Zealand. Meals are tastefully presented on oversize crockery and tables are draped in linen. The narrow interior's dark red walls are bisected by heavy shelves displaying oversize pottery, and some fine examples of local painters hang here and there. Just opened and moved from their old address, this restaurant is always full and seems to attract a unique mix of expats and locals -- a slick mafia set, but don't let them know I told you. The only drawback to the dining experience at Truc Lam is the secondhand smoke, so go for a seat near the veranda (and certainly not back near the small bar). They regularly feature live music, too.

• © Frommer's 2013