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Lily
Master Critic Review
Lily
8.8
Chef Rob Lam’s Vietnamese cooking leans polished and precise, from turmeric fried catfish bánh mì to duck confit egg rolls. Locals use it for date nights and special-occasion lunches thanks to thoughtful flavors and balanced execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Turmeric Fried Catfish Bánh Mì, Duck Confit Egg Rolls, Grilled Pork Bún
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Chef-driven Vietnamese with refined technique and seasonal touches.
Who should go: Date-night diners and modern Vietnamese fans
When to visit: Reserve weekends; lunch special Fri–Sun
What to order: Turmeric fish bánh mì; duck confit rolls; bún
Insider tip: Lunch prix fixe offers standout value for the quality.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Clement or 6th Avenue; can fill up quickly after 6pm, so plan for a short walk.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine if paired with a nice top or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate – lively but still easy to hold a date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; book ahead for prime times.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several thoughtful dishes like lemongrass tofu and papaya salad.
Vegan options: Limited – about 2–3 items can be modified upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – staff can advise on rice noodle and fish-sauce–based options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely – the intimate lighting, refined plating, and balanced flavors make it an ideal setting for a first date or special occasion.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or early evenings, but weekends fill quickly. Walk-ins may find limited bar seating or short waits around opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially – the atmosphere leans adult and refined. Suitable for older teens, but there’s no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Refined Vietnamese flavors with French technique and elegant presentation – ideal for dates or impressing out-of-town guests.
Skip if: You’re looking for quick, casual pho or street-style dishes; Lily is a sit-down, chef-driven experience.