Monsieur Vuong
This busy place pioneered the Asian lifestyle soup bar in Berlin and embodies a certain style that dozens of upstarts have tried to emulate. A minimal selection of tasty Vietnamese soups and refreshingly spicy noodle dishes are served in a flawlessly designed environment. The In the Mood for Love soundtrack, the aquarium, the circular bar and the large black-andwhite portrait of the owner in his youth create a particular brand of Asian charm and warmth that keeps Mitte’s masses - and us - coming back for more. Alte Schönhauser Str. 46, U-Bhf Rosenthaler Platz, Tel 3087 2643, www.monsieurvuong.de, Mon-Sat 12:00-24:00, Sun 14:00-24:00, main courses from 6.90 euros, EC accepted
Mr. Long
Did you notice? A couple of years ago, all Asian restaurants boasted Thai food, today it seems more fashionable to haul up the Vietnamese flag, flavours and colours … A healthy break from the generic coco-based curry and heavy egg noodles - more fresh herbs, less oil! At Mr. Long, you’ll find the neighbourhood’s best Vietnamese food, from rice noodlebased dishes and refreshing rice-paper rolls to exotic salads (lotus and chicken, green mango with king-size shrimps) and fragrant jumbo soups. Vegans will enjoy the impressive bowl of Vietnamese herbs on a bed of rice or glass noodles mixed in a hot garlic sauce and topped with fresh tofu. Others may risk the spicy frogs’ legs or the festive hot pots (hot!). Lovely outdoor seating and friendly owner. Kolllwitzstr. 87, U-Bhf Eberswalder Str., Tel 4430 8493, www.mrlongandfriends-berlin.de, daily 11:30-23:30, main courses 5-16.90 euros, cash only