DTA: How is it? Vietnam Gate Restaurant
Vietnamese nearby. Ooh! Just a couple of blocks from Aurora in our neighboring community of North Aurora, Vietnam Gate opened at 321 S. Lincolnway (Route 31). That’s Lake Street in Aurora.
How is it? It’s decent, but rather odd. There’s a number of oddities about Vietnam Gate. First, it’s in a location that seems more insurance agency than restaurant. Cars, only going north, enter from Route 31 and circle around to the rear of the building to the parking lot.
Surprise! There is also a drive-thru at Vietnam Gate. That’s odd. It’s a novelty that might work, but considering that we waited about 15 minutes for our take-out food, I’d call ahead for drive-thru service.
The inside of Vietnam Gate is pretty tiny; there are just a few tables, but we sat at table number 7 to wait for our food. Were there 7 tables? Maybe.
We ordered our food at the counter that is set up like Panda Express, but without any hot food in the stainless steel warmers. The menu is small and very limited for vegetarians. We ordered fried rice without meat, and spring rolls sans meat, as well. Other non-vegetarian options were pho and a Vietnamese sandwich.
The table next to us seemed to be enjoying their food, but commented on how they need to work out the kinks.
We paid $18 and some change for one vegetable fried rice and two orders of spring rolls. Luckily, it fed all four of us with no problem. The spring rolls (more similar to lettuce wraps) were delicious served with peanut sauce. The fried rice with some broccoli and snap peas pleased us all .
It was tasty. The service was friendly. The restaurant was small and sterile. But it is a nice change of pace and a welcome addition to the Aurora area.
If they add some more vegetarian options, we will definitely be back. The spring rolls are addictive. Vietnam Gate might be more for lovers of chicken pho, however.
Have you tried Vietnam Gate? How is it? Let us know what you think using the comments section below.