I wish I could say that I came across Saigon proudly on my own, thanks to my taste bud journey. But I can't tell a lie. I have to thank my friends for this hidden gem. Most gems are hard to find but this one happens to be easy, it’s located on 2006 S. Calhoun St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802. That’s right, it is downtown!
An authentic Vietnamese restaurant, Saigon is locally owned and definitely has an old school feel. Whenever I go there I feel like Hemingway or Kerouac, as though I traveled through time. The last time I was there a family of 16 walked in, full of laughter and excitement. Behind me were two businessmen talking tactics. And to my right was an elderly couple laughing and sharing appetizers. Only quality food has the capacity to bring all flocks of life to a place. Saigon is one of those restaurants. Saying the food is amazing, just doesn't give justice!
No. 11 "Rice noodles with shrimp"
As a self-declared foodie freshman I have to say that the presentation was pretty! Before Saigon, I've never received chop sticks with a soup order. Also on the side plate I received limes, spinach and bean sprouts which I could mix in with my bowl adding as many flavors as I want. The broth is one I will crave when I am cold or sick. Think of your grandma's signature dish. Where the smell alone produces a taste, feeling the warm broth touch your lips, run down your throat and then a pleasant texture surprise of shrimp.
Spring Rolls
By far this dish had my favorite presentation... maybe because I really like the plate!
I digress.
The color of the roll pops with the yummy sauce. The sauce looks like it would be tangy but in reality it is more nutty and almost caramel like. Sweet but not sugary, more sweetness than tang. The texture of this meal was also fairly enjoyable. Within the roll are bean sprouts, rice noodles, shrimp, pork and lettuce. The crunchy sprouts and lettuce mixed with the soft rice noodles provide fun feelings for your mouth. Also, I truly liked how my appetizer was cool versus my warm soup.
Saigon is certainly becoming one of my favorite restaurants in Fort Wayne. One thing you should know, Saigon is CASH ONLY. No one wants to be that person who doesn't bring the correct form of payment. I repeat CASH ONLY. Also Saigon is closed on Wednesdays. Open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Tuesday, Thursday through Saturday. Sundays open from 9am to 6pm. They do have take-out. They also serve wine and beer.
