Uncle Nam’s is a relaxed, canteen-style Vietnamese eatery in the heart of Stoke Newington. A favourite among locals, the restaurant offers a huge range of authentic dishes such as summer rolls, pho and banh mi, available to eat in or order online. Groups can dine at the long tables while couples or solo diners might prefer to dine at the bar. On the walls, you’ll see murals of cherry blossom, bamboo and native birds and on the tables, you’ll find all the sauces you could need to personalise your meal.
Start off with prawn crackers accompanied by plenty of sauces for dipping (the proceeds from these tasty snacks go to the Te Phan Orphanage in Saigon). After these, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to starters. Choose from meatier options like fish sauce-coated chicken wings and pork summer rolls, seafood options like salt and pepper squid and prawns or veggie dishes like spring rolls or tofu summer rolls.
Lovers of noodle soup shouldn’t miss the pho here. This warming Vietnamese soup comes in various forms, including vegan, chicken, beef, brisket or the special (beef, meatballs and brisket). For something a little punchier, try the hot and sour soup. These feature fishcake, prawn or veggies, along with oodles of flavour. Rice dishes are also available if you aren’t in the mood for soup, including crispy pork belly or honey-roasted chicken.
For a quicker bite, banh mi is available too. These Vietnamese sandwiches feature spiced pork, fishcake, chicken, omelette or tofu, along with plenty of pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, chilli and lime. To drink, Vietnamese coffee is a must. It uses condensed milk and packs a serious punch. Alternatively, go for a cold Saigon lager - yet another touch of authenticity. If you want to sample the goods but don’t live nearby, you can order from the restaurant via Deliveroo.