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Sochi Saigonese Kitchen
Master Critic Review
Sochi Saigonese Kitchen
8.6
Husband-wife duo Son Do and Chinh Pham bring elevated Saigon-style cooking to this bright Lakeview space, earning multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand recognitions. The kitchen emphasizes ingredient sourcing and technique, delivering dishes with layered flavors that reward slow, deliberate eating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Slap Yo Mama Crab Fried Rice, Shaking Beef with Bone Marrow Rice, Original Egg Rolls
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Michelin Bib Gourmand Vietnamese from high school sweethearts who tell Saigon stories through every dish
Who should go: Date nights and food enthusiasts seeking refined Vietnamese
When to visit: Early dinner before a Schuba's show across the street
What to order: Crab fried rice, shaking beef, duck salad with banana blossoms
Insider tip: Counter seats by the open kitchen offer front-row cooking views
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street and meter parking on Belmont Ave - generally available, easier before 6pm on weekends
Dress code: Smart casual - elevated neighborhood spot where jeans work but most guests dress neatly
Noise level: Lively to loud - music plays throughout and busy nights get energetic; book early for quieter experience
Weekend wait: Reservation essential - packed Fri/Sat with 30-45 min wait for walk-ins if available
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only Wed-Sat starting at 4pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - Veggie Noodle Salad, Roasted Eggplant, tofu vermicelli bowl; note some dishes use non-vegetarian stock
Vegan options: Very limited - call ahead as many sauces contain fish sauce or chicken broth
Gluten-free options: Available - staff can guide modifications; rice paper rolls and rice-based dishes work well
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - warm modern atmosphere, shareable plates encourage conversation, and the open kitchen counter seats add energy. Book early evening for a quieter table before theater crowds arrive.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights are possible with a short wait. Fri/Sat without a reservation is risky - this Bib Gourmand spot fills up. OpenTable reservations recommended, especially for parties of 4+.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - they offer a kids menu and high chairs. Families are welcome, though the lively atmosphere and moderate portions suit kids 6+ better than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Refined Vietnamese with technique and presentation that rewards food enthusiasts - the 10-hour pho and rice paper imported from Vietnam set it apart from neighborhood spots
Skip if: You want huge portions or quick service - dishes are meant for sharing and savoring, and the kitchen takes its time. Also skip for strict vegans or if you need a quiet conversation space