Bamboo Bistro was founded by Chau Haller Haller in 2003. Born into a family that owned famous boulangeries in Vietnam, Haller immigrated to the U.S. in the late 80s. She never imagined following in her parents’ footsteps, but after coming across a struggling, charming diner in Corona Del Mar, California, she impulsively decided to buy it. The first few months were not easy. Faced with the countless challenges of starting a business, Haller almost gave up; however, inspired by her family’s perseverance, she kept pushing. Haller utilizes her expertise as a licensed dietician to create healthy yet delicious meals for customers. She turned a failing business into a Corona Del Mar staple that is sure to be filled with happy customers at every visit.
Walking in through the large wooden door covered in Vietnamese artistic detailing, customers are welcomed to the bustling atmosphere of Bamboo Bistro. Tables are filled with families, both old and young couples, and friends deep in conversation. The dark tiled floors complement the dim lighting graced by statues of Buddha peacefully upholstered to the wall and bamboo plants bordering the doorway. The sizzling food in the kitchen backdrops customers’ voices and provides an aroma of warmth that nourishes a sense of home. Casually dressed and engulfed in lively conversation, customers are not bothered by the waves of people rushing in and out to pick up takeout. The environment is simple with paper placemats, yet the feeling is one of warmth and represents generations of families coming together to enjoy a tasty meal.
As a bowl of hot vegetable pho noodle soup is placed on the table, a warm glaze of steam arises, and the savory aura of chicken broth invites customers to dive right in. At first sip, the smooth broth soothes the mouth and provides hints of flavors to come. The assortment of steamed vegetables supply a variety of textures that make the dish an adventure to embark upon. Broccoli and cauliflower offer a crunchy delight as the bok choy greets the palate with a lively freshness. Soft tofu melts in the mouth, encompassed by irresistible silky rice noodles. When customers try a spoon filled with all the ingredients, a firework of flavors and textures will awaken the taste buds and leave them asking for more.
A plate of optional additives accompanies the dish. The bean sprouts add a fresh crunch to the soup, while a simple squeeze of the lime can add a delicious hint of sourness that brings the soup to life. For customers craving spice, the freshly cut jalapeno peppers will do the trick perfectly. Sparking anything they touch with a tangy surprise, the peppers are sure to keep customers attentive. A small plate of two sauces is available. As the deep purple paste adds a rich, flavorsome kick, the hot red sauce is available for those seeking additional pricks of spice.
Vegetable Spring Rolls are the perfect appetizer for anyone looking for the ideal bite of fresh and savory. After cutting through the sticky rice paper, the mouth is greeted by crunchy peanuts and greens, followed by a sharp basil that cuts through at the very end. A side of peanut sauce tingles the tongue with its red peppers, providing the perfect fire. For dessert, customers should be sure to try the fresh mango and sticky rice. Uncommon but delicious, the sweet mango perfectly complements the sticky rice as a warm creamy coconut sauce encompasses the flavors with a sweet embrace.
When returning for a second time, don’t miss out on the Sizzling Sole, a beautifully crafted dish that is simply wafted in mouth-watering seasoning. If craving a drink to start, nothing is better than the soothing ginger and green teas. Be prepared to be transported to Vietnam with the very first bite of Bamboo Bistro’s breathtakingly delicious yet nutritious food.
