Banh and Beyond: Vietnamese vibes in Belfast

Banh Boy was started by a small team of food lovers who are passionate about bringing a taste of Vietnam to Belfast. Their mission is simple: keep things fun, fresh, and real. You can feel that vibe as soon as you walk in. The decor is a blend of industrial-cool with some warm, traditional Vietnamese touches, like live greenery and big, bold wall art that feels like it was plucked straight from a street market in Hanoi. It’s casual, super welcoming, and the staff make you feel right at home. They’re always down to chat about the menu and throw in recommendations if you’re not sure what to try.

Banh Boy’s menu is packed with all the Vietnamese hits, but they’ve put a fresh spin on things to keep it interesting. If you’re at Banh Boy, obviously you must try a Banh Mi. For those not in the know, a banh mi is a crusty baguette stuffed with marinated meats or tofu, pickled veggies, and fresh herbs—it’s crunchy, juicy, and bursting with flavour. You can go for lemongrass pork, roast chicken, or a veggie option with tofu, which is just as tasty. Quick, satisfying, and really hits the spot.

We also suggest sharing a few of their other small plates so you get to taste everything on offer. We especially love the Thai style fish cakes with mango salsa and green chilli relish, the Philly cheese steak dumplings served with American mustard, and the corn ribs with a black bean butter.

If you’re a lover of a Southeast Asian curry or just love a good deal, hit up Banh Boy on Monday or Tuesday for their curry night specials. They’ve got a few different curry options, like their yellow curry with roast cod and pickled tomato, their green curry with Sichuan lamb and wakame and kimchi, and their soy braised beef massaman served alongside a mooli salad.

Opt for their £23 2-course deal and you can add on any of their starters (we suggest the Vietnamese fried boneless wings with a miso buffalo sauce or the sambal beef skewers), or for an extra £3, your meal includes a dessert too. Choose between the ice cream sando on a cardamon cookie, the Sichuan strawberry with yoghurt mousse, or the dark chocolate brownie with a miso caramel. Curry night at Banh Boy is tasty, filling, and at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for starting off the week with something comforting and packed with flavour.

Banh Boy is a laid-back, friendly place where people come to kick back, have a great meal, and maybe try something new. The vibe, the staff, and the authentic yet approachable menu make Banh Boy more than just a Vietnamese restaurant — it’s a little slice of Southeast Asia right in the city. Whether you’re swinging by for lunch, chilling with friends over dinner, or snagging a deal on curry night, Banh Boy feels like the kind of spot you want to keep coming back to.

You’ll find Banh Boy at 257 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3JF. Book your table with them right here on Dish Cult.