Hello Auntie

Overview

If you're a Marrickville local, you might know Auntie. She has a small shopfront on Illawarra Road and, should you come across it, it's well worth heading inside to say hello.

Start with her bánh xèo — because she certainly knows how to make a mean one. The thin and crispy coconut and turmeric crepe — which comes stuffed with onion, bean sprouts and your choice of protein (pork or prawns) — is as authentic as it comes.

Then there's the pho. The beloved Vietnamese dish most people pronounce wrong (FYI it's fuh). Of course, there are embellished alternatives, and if you want the good stuff, then the pho dac biet is a must-try. Picture this: a large bowl filled to the brim with house-made wagyu meatballs, thinly sliced black Angus beef, braised brisket, a torched beef short rib and rice noodles swimming in a broth so rich in flavour, you'll be begging for the recipe.

This is all best lapped up with a classic cocktail or alcoholic slushie in hand. Or for a more authentic experience, order a Bia Ha Noi lager while you sit back in your Bentwood chair and watch the 'aunties' do their magic from behind the brass-trimmed open kitchen.

But that's not the only interesting viewing at Hello Auntie. The narrow, low-lit industrial-style space is decked out with shelves stacked with old-school knick knacks and black and white family memorabilia. There's even a collection of mirrors that line the exposed brick walls, so you can watch the restaurant in full swing.

So, whether you're stopping in for a date night, a catch-up with mates or a quick solo lunch, Hello Auntie has everything covered.

Top images: Bodhi Liggett.