Huynh is a beloved neighborhood Vietnamese restaurant in EaDo close to the convention center and downtown. Every diner is treated like a regular, even if they aren’t, like the sort of spot where locals and tourists gel into one. It’s a reliable place, even when it’s busy. Service is attentive. The owners are always there, waiting tables and greeting guests—you’ll know who they are from all of the family photos hanging in the waiting area. The food is solid, ranging from charred, smoky shaken beef to sweet and tender charred pork wrapped in soft rice paper to a spicy, aromatic bún bò huế. Huynh is also BYOB, so you can bring a few bottles for a date or large get together. Just make sure to grab a Dum-Dum on your way out.

photo credit: Liz Silva