Hat Gao offers a delightful bowl of pho that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers in Nicosia.
Pho: Exploring Nicosia’s Old Town
Nicosia’s old town is a place of contrasts, where charming serpentine streets meet a vibrant culinary scene. Residents often find themselves divided in their opinions about the area; some are drawn to its hidden gems, while others prefer to steer clear of the bustling atmosphere. For those who cherish the lively character of the old town, Hat Gao is an inviting Vietnamese eatery located conveniently at the entrance, allowing easy access without the need to navigate the dense maze of Ledra Street.
A Compact Culinary Experience
Despite its limited space, Hat Gao makes a bold statement with its décor and layout. The restaurant features three wooden tables and six chairs outside, arranged closely together, reminiscent of a communal picnic setup. Inside, guests find only two tables, spaced just an elbow’s length apart, creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
Upon arrival, diners are greeted warmly and handed a well-loved menu, hinting at the restaurant’s charm. Many diners opt for a selection of dishes to share, starting with summer rolls filled with duck and steamed vegetable buns. The lively kitchen atmosphere, complemented by music and the delectable sounds of cooking, adds to the excitement of dining here.
Appetisers That Delight
The summer rolls arrive at the table, generously filled and bursting with flavour. Wrapped in translucent rice paper, they reveal a mix of vermicelli noodles, crisp vegetables, and tender duck. Though the rolls are delightful, the accompanying dipping sauce is somewhat mild, leaving diners craving a more robust flavour.
The steamed vegetable buns follow shortly after, larger than expected and slightly doughy, yet they remain fluffy and satisfying. Each bun is filled with hearty ingredients, making them a comforting choice for appetisers.
Contrasting Main Courses
When the mains arrive, the bulgogi chicken takes centre stage, though it diverges from traditional Korean preparation. Instead of the expected thinly sliced, marinated meat with a sweet and savoury char, the dish resembles a sauced stir-fry with vegetables. While it is tasty and enjoyable, it doesn’t quite deliver the bulgogi experience that diners might anticipate.
In contrast, the highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the pho. This quintessential Vietnamese dish showcases a generous bowl filled with savoury, simmered broth, thinly sliced beef, and fresh herbs like mint and coriander. Each spoonful is restorative and fulfilling, making it easy to see why the pho is a favourite among patrons. Priced at just €9, it represents excellent value for a complete meal that leaves diners satisfied.
Finding Value Amidst Nicosia’s Culinary Options
Nicosia boasts an impressive array of dining options, with 968 restaurants scattered throughout the city, each vying for attention. In such a crowded market, choosing the right place to eat can be a daunting task. Hat Gao, with its unique offerings and friendly atmosphere, stands out as a worthy contender. Its quirks and charm make it an enjoyable stop for those exploring the old town.
For those keen on authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Hat Gao not only delivers on flavour but also offers an experience that reflects the vibrant culture of Nicosia’s old town. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this snug eatery is certainly worth a visit.
Vital Statistics
- Specialty: Asian cuisine
- Location: Hat Gao, Vasiliou Voulgaroktonou 58, Nicosia
- Hours: Daily, 11am – 10.30pm
- Contact: 22 002235
- Prices: €5-8.50 for starters, €9-12 for mains
