Being a native of Richmond, I am always amazed to learn about local restaurants that have been in business for years that I've never heard about. Huong Tra Vietnamese Restaurant and Deli is one such hidden gem that escaped my awareness for over 16 years. Anchoring the north end of a short strip mall on San Pablo Avenue in Richmond (near Wendy’s Hamburgers), Huong Tra is a popular stop for those who love to indulge in Vietnamese cuisine. When I arrived to review Huong Tra, I was lucky to find a parking space directly in front of the restaurant in the narrow one-way strip mall parking lot. Through the large front window, I observed that nearly all of the tables were full, which I thought was surprising for the middle of the week. The bright inside lighting enabled me to view the many diners inside enjoying their meals. As I entered the restaurant, my sense of smell was immediately rewarded with wonderful, appealing aromas of the foods being cooked served within. I waited behind several customers picking up take-out orders before I finally introduced myself to the restaurant owner, Adrian Nguyen. Adrian seated my guest and I with menus at the only available space, which were two middle seats between other diners seated at either end of a long table. All of the other 15 tables were occupied with hungry patrons! While seated, I looked around and noticed the diversity of the diners--comprised of all ages and ethnicities. I was pleasantly surprised to see several families with very young children, and enjoyed watching a baby in a high chair attempting to eat with chopsticks! The interior of the dining area is casual and the décor is simple. The marble-topped tables add a touch of elegance, and the padded chairs are restaurant review 12221 SAN PABlo AVeNue, SuITe 8 IN RIcHmoND | (510) 234-7428 | HuoNgTRAVIeTNAmeSeReSTAuRANT.com by vickie lewis Huong Tra Vietnamese Restaurant and Deli PHo TAI (meDIum RARe BeeF NooDle SouP)
Contra Costa Marketplace - Jan 2015
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