A Taste of Vietnam in Mentone: VIP Banh Mi & Pho

VIP Banh Mi & Pho stands as a beacon for lovers of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. This unassuming eatery has quickly become a local favourite, drawing in residents and visitors alike with its fragrant bowls of pho and crispy banh mi rolls. In a city renowned for its diverse food scene, VIP Banh Mi & Pho offers a slice of Saigon right in Melbourne’s south-east, blending traditional recipes with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Opened in recent years, the restaurant embodies the spirit of Vietnamese street food, brought to life by passionate owners who prioritise authenticity and flavour. Whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or settling down for a hearty meal, the welcoming atmosphere makes it feel like a home away from home. With a focus on fresh herbs, tender meats, and aromatic broths, it’s no wonder the spot has garnered rave reviews from patrons across platforms.

Menu Highlights: From Street Food Classics to Comforting Bowls

The menu at VIP Banh Mi & Pho is a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, featuring staples like pho noodle soups and banh mi sandwiches, alongside appetisers and rice dishes. Prices are reasonable, making it accessible for everyday dining.

Start with the appetisers, such as the Rice Paper Rolls ($14.00), which come in pairs with a side of peanut sauce. These fresh rolls are packed with vermicelli, herbs, and your choice of filling, offering a light and refreshing bite. For something crispier, the Spring Rolls (8 pieces for $19.50) are a crowd-pleaser, fried to golden perfection and served with a dipping sauce.

The banh mi selection is where the restaurant truly shines. The Roast Pork Roll ($14.00) is the most popular, featuring tender pork, pickled carrots, cucumber, coriander, and a smear of pâté in a crusty baguette.

 

Customers rave about its balance of flavours – salty, sweet, and tangy all at once. Other options include the BBQ Chicken Roll ($14.00), Tofu Roll ($14.00) for vegetarians, and the Ham Pork Roll ($14.00).

For heartier fare, dive into the Traditional Vietnamese Noodle Soups. The Slice Beef Soup ($23.00) offers tender beef in a rich, slow-simmered broth, garnished with fresh bean sprouts, basil, and lime. The Chicken Breast Soup ($23.00) is equally comforting, with succulent chicken in a clear, aromatic stock. For those seeking variety, the Special Beef Soup ($27.00) includes a mix of slice beef, beef balls, tendon, brisket, and tripe – a true pho aficionado’s delight.

 

Vegetarian options like the Vegetable and Tofu Soup ($23.00) ensure everyone is catered for.

Don’t miss the Vermicelli Noodles with Grilled Pork and Spring Rolls ($26.00), a vibrant bowl of noodles topped with grilled pork, fresh mint, salad, pickled carrots, fried shallots, and peanuts. Or try the Special Broken Rice ($26.00), featuring pork chop, egg, terrine, and shredded pork alongside fresh vegetables.

Beverages include Vietnamese iced coffee and smoothies, perfect for washing down the bold flavours.

 

Atmosphere and Service: A Warm Vietnamese Welcome

The interior of VIP Banh Mi & Pho is simple yet inviting, with clean lines, wooden tables, and subtle nods to Vietnamese culture. It’s a casual spot ideal for solo diners, families, or groups catching up over a meal. The staff are known for their friendly and efficient service, often going the extra mile to recommend dishes or accommodate dietary needs. As one reviewer noted, “The service is 10/10. I’ll definitely be coming back.”

With a 4.8 rating from over 420 reviews on Uber Eats and 4.7 out of 5 on Restaurant Guru, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Patrons frequently highlight the freshness of ingredients: “Possibly one of the freshest Pho and Banh Mi in Melbourne,” says one. Another enthuses, “It’s absolutely the best Banh Mi in Melbourne. You have to try and you’ll never go anywhere else.” Comments like “Quality ingredients and wonderful flavours” and “Always delicious and fresh” echo throughout reviews.

Business Contact Details

• Address: 92 Nepean Hwy, Mentone VIC 3194, Australia
• Phone: +61 402 081 438
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed (noted as 12 AM – 12 AM, but likely closed)
  • Wednesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Social Media:Facebook, Instagram
• Delivery Options: Available via Uber Eats and DoorDash

Whether you’re a pho enthusiast or a banh mi beginner, VIP Banh Mi & Pho promises an authentic and satisfying experience. Next time you’re in Mentone, stop by and savour the flavours of Vietnam.