Authentic Vietnamese Food in London at Song Hong: A Hidden Gem Near Clapham Junction
If you find yourself near Clapham Junction and craving authentic Vietnamese food, Song Hong is a family-run gem you can’t miss. Just a short stroll from the station, this cozy spot offers an extensive menu packed with flavourful dishes at wallet-friendly prices, averaging around £10-£15 per person. Whether you’re a pho fanatic or a banh xeo enthusiast, Song Hong serves up authentic Vietnamese flavours that hit the spot.
A Warm Welcome with Addictive Bites
The moment you sit down, you’re greeted with a complimentary basket of prawn crackers. It was light, crispy, and dangerously addictive. It’s a small touch, but it sets the tone for the meal ahead, hinting at the comforting vibe that Song Hong embodies.
Diving Into Vietnamese Classics
Song Hong truly shines with its generous portions, especially when it comes to starters. The Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crispy pancake) stood out right away—not just for its size but for its perfect golden crunch. Unlike the traditional, softer omelette-style banh xeo where the fillings are mixed in, Song Hong’s version separates the prawns and pork, giving each bite a satisfying texture contrast. I loved the unexpected crunch, which made the dish even more memorable.
Since moving to London, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Banh Cuon, and Song Hong’s version did not disappoint. These delicate steamed rice rolls were filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and fungus, creating a beautifully balanced bite. The texture was silky smooth, and the flavours melded together perfectly, making it a standout dish for me.
For something light and refreshing, the Papaya Salad was a great palate cleanser. It brought a crisp, zesty freshness to the table, balancing the richer dishes beautifully.
A Bowl of Comfort: Pho at Its Finest
No Vietnamese meal is complete without pho, and Song Hong’s Special Beef Pho was everything I hoped for. The bowl came brimming with tender slices of beef, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, and juicy beef balls. But the real star was the broth—rich, aromatic, and deeply comforting. It was the kind of bowl you could lose yourself in, especially on a chilly London evening.
Vermicelli Bowls That Hit the SpotMy personal favorite? The Grilled Pork and Spring Rolls with Vermicelli Noodles. This dish is my go-to comfort food, and Song Hong nailed it. The grilled pork was flavorful and juicy, while the spring rolls had that perfect golden crunch with a savory, well-seasoned filling. Combined with the fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and vermicelli noodles, every bite felt like a perfect harmony of textures and flavours.
A Taste of Asia with Fresh Coconut
One delightful surprise was finding whole fresh coconuts on the menu. Sipping chilled coconut water straight from the shell instantly transported me back to the streets of Asia, where fresh coconuts are a staple on every corner. It’s rare to find this in London, and it added an authentic, tropical touch to the meal that perfectly complemented the vibrant dishes.
Atmosphere and Service with a Personal Touch
Beyond the food, Song Hong has a charm of its own. The tables are adorned with cute paper sculptures that add a playful, homely touch to the dining experience. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome.
Final Thoughts
Song Hong isn’t just another Vietnamese restaurant, it’s a place where you can taste the love and tradition in every dish. The hearty portions, authentic flavours, and friendly atmosphere make it one of the best Vietnamese spots I’ve found in London so far. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Vietnamese cuisine or just starting to explore it, Song Hong is definitely worth adding to your list.
Dishes we ordered at Song Hong
Starters
- Banh Cuon (Steam Rice Rolls) £13.50
- Prawns and Pork Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crispy Pancake) £13.50
- Papaya salad £9.50
Mains
- Special Beef Pho £14.50
- Grilled Pork and Spring Rolls with vermicelli noodles £14.50
Drinks
- Whole Coconut Drink £5.50
Details
- Address: Song Hong / 180 Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TQ
- Opening Hours: Mon – Sat (12–3 PM, 5–10:45 PM); Sun (12PM – 10:45PM)
- Price Range: £10 – £15pp
- Generous Portions at Affordable Prices
- Conveniently located close to Clapham Junction Overground
- A Hidden Gem for Vietnamese Food Lovers
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Tags: Travel, Explore, Food in London, What to eat in London, Vietnamese food in London, Asian Food in London, where to visit in London, Food in Clapham Junction, Food in Battersea, London Food
