Tucked away in Westminster, SEN Vietnamese Cuisine transports diners to the bustling streets of Hải Phòng with its authentic, lovingly crafted dishes. Our visit focused on a few standout offerings, each showcasing the rich culinary heritage of northern Vietnam. From vibrant appetizers to soul-warming entrees, SEN masterfully captures the essence of Hải Phòng’s iconic flavors.

Walking into SEN Vietnamese Cuisine feels like stepping back in time to Saigon in the 1900s, where colonial charm meets traditional Vietnamese elegance. The warm wooden furniture, soft ambient lighting, and understated vintage decor evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. Every detail, from the intricate patterns to the welcoming atmosphere, is designed to transport diners to a time when Saigon’s streets were alive with culture, history, and culinary tradition. It’s a space that blends old-world charm with modern comfort, making it the perfect backdrop for enjoying authentic northern Vietnamese cuisine.

The menu at SEN Vietnamese Cuisine is a beautiful homage to authentic northern Vietnamese flavors, with a clear emphasis on traditional Hải Phòng dishes. Each category is thoughtfully curated, offering a range of appetizers, entrées, and drinks that showcase the restaurant’s dedication to high-quality, regional cuisine.

The Appetizer: Bánh Mì Que

A meal at SEN begins with the unassuming yet delightful Bánh Mì Que. These slender, crisp baguettes are a hallmark of Hải Phòng street food, delivering a perfect crunch with every bite. Filled with rich pâté and a touch of spice, these mini sandwiches pack a punch of flavor in their petite size.

They’re simple, but the magic lies in their texture and balance—an ideal prelude to the feast ahead.

Hải Phòng Specialties

Bánh Đa Cua Hải Phòng

A true taste of Hải Phòng comes alive in the Bánh Đa Cua Hải Phòng, a noodle dish steeped in tradition. This hearty bowl features thick, rustic flat noodles (bánh đa) swimming in a rich broth made from shrimp, crab fishcake, meatball, and a medley of aromatic herbs.

The toppings are a revelation—sweet chunks of crab meat, fried shallots, and fresh greens that elevate the dish with vibrant flavors and textures. The broth itself is the star: earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet, it’s the kind of comfort that lingers long after the last spoonful.

Pro Tip: Mix in a little chili paste for an extra depth of heat, and squeeze lime to brighten the flavors even further.

Xôi Gà Sen

Another showstopper is the Xôi Gà Sen, a dish that takes the humble sticky rice to extraordinary heights. SEN’s version features tender chicken paired with fragrant sticky rice, steamed with lotus leaves for an added layer of aroma. This dish captures the simplicity and depth that northern Vietnamese cuisine is known for. The fried chicken in the Xôi Gà Sen is a showstopper on its own—expertly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. The crispy, flavorful skin crackles with every bite, while the inside remains tender, juicy, and bursting with rich, savory notes

To elevate the flavor even further, make sure to order a side of their Pâté Hải Hải—a rich, savory spread that adds a creamy, umami-packed kick to every bite, turning an already satisfying dish into an unforgettable experience.

The delicate seasoning and beautifully cooked chicken are complemented by pickled vegetables, offering a tangy contrast to the richness of the sticky rice.

The Perfect Drink: Bạc Xỉu

To complement these bold and satisfying dishes, we opted for Bạc Xỉu, a creamy, sweet iced coffee that serves as a refreshing finale. It’s the perfect way to balance the savory richness of Hải Phòng’s cuisine with a touch of indulgence.

Why SEN Stands Out

SEN Vietnamese Cuisine is more than a restaurant; it’s a gateway to the unique flavors of Hải Phòng. From their dedication to traditional recipes to their thoughtful presentation, SEN captures the heart and soul of northern Vietnam with every bite.

If you’re looking to experience the distinctive tastes of Hải Phòng, SEN is an absolute must-visit. Their dishes will leave you feeling both comforted and inspired—an unforgettable culinary journey that stays with you long after the meal is over.