Nestled in between small cafes and independent shops, Van Hing is a hidden treasure on Camberwell Church Street, serving up vibrant Vietnamese flavours. When I moved to South London for my studies three years ago, I searched for budget-friendly yet delicious spots, and Van Hing quickly became my go-to for a comforting bowl of pho or a hearty plate of noodles.
Its unassuming, green-painted exterior makes it easy to miss, but once inside you’re immediately greeted by a warm and home-like atmosphere. Its intimate layout, round wooden tables with paper cloths, and authentic red lanterns create an inviting dining experience that feels more like a living room than a restaurant.
The star of any good restaurant is, of course, the food. Van Hing’s varied menu includes noodles, rice dishes, and my personal favourite — their pho. The first time I visited, I was battling a winter cold and was hoping for a bowl of food that would heal me. What I got was so much more. With its tender beef and aromatic broth packed with fresh herbs and spices, it perfectly warms the soul each and every time. At £10-£12 for a bowl of pho, the portions are extremely generous making it excellent value.
On a rainy afternoon a few weeks back, a group of friends and I were in the area looking for somewhere to have lunch. I suggested Van Hing, and as they say, sharing is caring. We ordered a range of dishes to have between us. The best way to experience a restaurant, in my opinion, is to sample a selection of the menu, allowing you to try a little of everything. We ordered the zesty lemon chicken, a satay selection, sizzling chilli squid and a mix of their homecooked noodle dishes. As always, the staff were incredibly welcoming, offering recommendations for those unfamiliar with Vietnamese cuisine.
We lingered a little longer, playing a couple of rounds of cards before braving the rain again. As we left, the waitress smiled at me and said, “I’m sure I’ll see you soon”. I laughed, knowing she was right.
Lucy Baker
Address: 42 Camberwell Church Street, London SE5 8QZ England