Victoria Street: The Main Artery

A walk down Victoria Street is an adventure in itself. The street is a vibrant tapestry of restaurants, bustling Asian grocery stores, and bakeries with pyramids of crusty baguettes in their windows. The air is thick with the aroma of grilling meats and simmering pho broth. While the sheer number of options can be daunting, it's a paradise for food lovers. Don't be afraid to wander into the many arcades that splinter off the main street, as they often hide some of the area's best-kept secrets.

To understand how Richmond became this incredible food hub, it's worth reading about the history of the Vietnamese community in Melbourne.

The Pho Pilgrimage in Richmond

Richmond is arguably the city's pho capital. You could spend weeks sampling the offerings and still not try them all. Each restaurant has its own secret recipe for the all-important broth, making the quest for the perfect bowl a personal and delicious journey. Here are some of the most revered pho joints in the area:

• I Love Pho 264: Perhaps the most famous pho restaurant on the strip, known for its consistently high-quality broth and fresh ingredients. The long queues are a testament to its popularity.
• Pho Hung Vuong 2: A strong contender for the pho crown, this spot is loved by locals for its rich, flavourful broth and generous portions of meat and noodles.
• Thanh Ha 1 & 2: These sister restaurants are beloved institutions, serving up reliable and delicious pho for decades. They are a quintessential Richmond dining experience.

Beyond the Noodle Soup: Richmond's Diverse Flavours

While pho is a major drawcard, Richmond's culinary landscape is incredibly diverse. To truly experience what the area has to offer, you must venture beyond the soup.

Banh Mi Bliss

Richmond is home to some of Melbourne's best banh mi. These Vietnamese sandwiches are the perfect, affordable lunch. Look for bakeries with lines out the door – a sure sign of quality. N. Lee Bakery and Phuoc Thanh Bakery are two of the most popular spots, serving up crusty baguettes filled with a delicious array of ingredients.

Com Tam and Bun Cha

For a hearty meal, look for restaurants specializing in com tam (broken rice) or bun cha (grilled pork with noodles). Co Thu Quan is a local favourite that offers a huge menu of regional specialties, including these classic dishes. It's a great place to go with a group and sample a wide variety of flavours.

Seafood and Hot Pot

As you wander down Victoria Street, you'll see many restaurants with tanks of live seafood. These establishments are perfect for a celebratory meal. Gather a group of friends and indulge in a seafood hot pot or a feast of fresh fish, prawns, and crab cooked in traditional Vietnamese styles.

Navigating the Richmond Food Scene: Tips for Success

• Bring Cash: While many places now accept cards, some of the smaller, more traditional eateries are still cash-only.
• Be Adventurous: Don't just stick to what you know. The menus in Richmond are vast and full of hidden gems. Try a dish you've never heard of.
• Explore the Arcades: Some of the best food is hidden away from the main street. Don't be afraid to explore the small shopping arcades.
• Go Beyond Victoria Street: While Victoria Street is the epicentre, the surrounding side streets also have fantastic restaurants that are often less crowded.

Conclusion: A Taste of Vietnam in the Heart of Melbourne

Richmond's Vietnamese food scene is a vibrant, essential part of Melbourne's cultural identity. It's a place of community, history, and, above all, incredible food. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, a culinary tour of Richmond is a journey that will reward you with unforgettable flavours and a deeper appreciation for the city's rich multicultural tapestry. After your meal, why not visit a local market? Our guide to Vietnamese grocery stores can show you where to go.