Tin Tin

Opposite the popular Dong Huong, Tin Tin also offers Chinese and Vietnamese specialities but in a cheerier environment, thanks to the large bay windows looking out onto two different streets. With friendly and efficient service, there’s a fast turnover of tables enjoying the fresh produce at great prices, which attracts locals and lunchtime regulars. It’s the sort of place where you share small tables and rub elbows with your neighbours.

The star of the menu is the Vietnamese bo bun, and beef or chicken kebabs with lemongrass rolled up in steamed rice pancakes. These are served on the side on pink plastic discs, next to a plate of meat, crushed peanuts, cucumber, mint and herbs, which you pile on and roll up. It’s fun and delicious, though a shame they charge €1 for each supplementary pancake.

Tin Tin also does excellent pho, banh cuon pancakes with minced meat and vegetables, loc lac rice with beef, banh xeo pancakes stuffed with soya shoots, pork and prawns, all washed down with jasmine tea for €1.50. Service is continuous, without an afternoon break, but there are no reservations and it’s often full at lunchtimes.