As the only representative of Michelin Guide-recommended Xôi Bát, the restaurant has gained popularity among food enthusiasts. Its uniqueness, novelty, and familiarity stem from a simple yet exquisite Vietnamese dish, making it a beloved spot. Let’s explore what makes Xôi Bát so special that it deserves a spot on the prestigious Michelin list!
1 Introducing Xôi Bát – The Only Michelin-Suggested Sticky Rice Restaurant
About Xôi Bát – The Unique Sticky Rice Restaurant Suggested by Michelin
Restaurant Quality: 4.4/5 (Rated by Google)
Address: Alley 8, Hoang Hoa Tham, Ward 7, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Usually crowded between 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Price Range: VND 35,000 – 65,000
Phone Number: 0325305957
Facebook: XÔI BÁT
Delivery: Available (Shopee Food, Foody)
Menu: Sticky rice with shredded chicken, braised pork belly, and more.
Signature Dish: Sticky rice with shredded chicken and egg yolk (VND 60,000)
Pros: Cozy ambiance, delicious food, reasonable prices.
Cons: Limited seating capacity.
Tucked away in a small alley on Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Xôi Bát captivates diners with its cozy atmosphere and limited seating of just 5-6 tables. On average, they sell over 200 bowls of sticky rice daily, with peak sales reaching up to 360 bowls.
True to its slogan, “A very different bowl of sticky rice”, Xôi Bát offers a unique dining experience, from the ambiance to the flavors. It is the only sticky rice restaurant to be included in the Bib Gourmand category of the Michelin Guide’s suggestions last June.
2 What Makes Xôi Bát So Special and Popular?
Unraveling the Name – Xôi Bát
The reason behind the name Xôi Bát is the unique presentation of serving sticky rice in a bowl instead of the usual takeout box. This sets them apart and showcases the cultural beauty of eating rice from a bowl, a traditional practice in Vietnam.
Interestingly, many people mistake the name as referring to the address of the restaurant. “Bát” translates to the number eight, which happens to be the address number of the restaurant. This serendipitous coincidence adds a layer of meaning to the name, as “bát” also symbolizes luck and prosperity for both the owners and diners.
The restaurant’s unique slogan
Impressive Ambiance
Sticky rice is typically sold as street food for quick, convenient meals. However, Xôi Bát invites guests to slow down and savor their meal in a beautifully designed space. The interior features wooden furnishings, a stone-covered floor, and abundant greenery, creating a traditional and nature-inspired atmosphere.
The restaurant’s aesthetically pleasing interior
Diverse Menu with Unique Flavors
Beyond the unique serving style and ambiance, Xôi Bát distinguishes itself with its creative menu. Diners can choose from nine different accompaniments to pair with their sticky rice, including unusual combinations like chicken, pork belly, eggs, and more.
Sticky rice served with a variety of accompaniments
The key to the restaurant’s success lies in the meticulous attention to detail, from ingredient selection to preparation. To achieve the perfect sticky rice, they use high-quality Northern sticky rice, cooked with chicken broth and coconut milk. Even the simple acts of fluffing and uncovering the rice are done with careful calculation to ensure the best quality.
Delicately presented dishes
The dishes are mostly prepared by the owner himself, ensuring the highest quality. The braised pork belly is skillfully prepared to eliminate any unpleasant odors while maintaining a crispy texture. The pork belly is made from tender pork neck, resulting in a soft and juicy bite. For dishes they don’t prepare in-house, they source them from trusted suppliers to guarantee delicious flavors and food safety.
The True Meaning Behind the Business Model
The owner’s decision to serve sticky rice stems from a desire to preserve the flavors of his mother’s cooking. He shares, “Sticky rice is a simple dish, but my mother’s touch makes it special and irreplaceable. I wanted to ensure that even if one day she no longer cooks for me, I can still enjoy her recipes and carry on our family tradition.”
Additionally, while sticky rice is a traditional Vietnamese dish, it is not widely known among international friends. The owner aims to introduce this culinary gem to a global audience.
