After a crazy afternoon spent at Art on the Ave (I think I still have a fun hangover, some day I'll post pics) we were looking for some easy Thai takeout. This proved to be impossible in the middle of a Sunday afternoon, so I eventually settled on Kim Anh, a neat little Vietnamese place we'd never tried before.

While I was waiting for my takeout order, I took in the disco ball overhead and lights on the ceiling and reflected that it must be an interesting place at night, with so much going on in a small space. On each table, there's a huge carafe of hot tea, and cups all ready to go. I sipped while the caffeine and quiet surroundings provided a second wind for the day.

I ordered 3 dishes: a Vietnamese crepe, pan fried rice noodles with chicken, and lemon grass chicken, with a side of two fresh spring rolls. At first, they all seemed a bit bland, until we realized that along with the spring rolls came an enormous roll of fresh herbs, wrapped in a paper towel. After breaking them up and liberally sprinkling on cilantro, basil, and mint, everything was wonderful, except the crepe which didn't get rave reviews from my husband. The noodles also came with sauce and peanuts on the side, to add as we wished. I like the DIY touch, I could feed the kids the bland stuff then load the dish up with flavor. The spring rolls were heavy on lettuce and herbs. I like them this way, more salad than appetizer.

There are plenty of big round tables at Kim Anh, with lazy susans, perfect for large groups and families. With the option to add your own seasonings, everyone should be able to find something they like.

Kim Anh Vietnamese Restaurant (menu coming soon!)

1620 S Mildred St, Ste 4

Tacoma

253-460-7200

Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs-Sat 11 am to 9pm, Wed 11 am to 8 pm, Sun 12-8.

dining, Vietnamese, Vietnamese map, West End