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Was excited to have found a Vietnamese place this neck o' the woods. I was surprised to see this little Asian restaurant sitting in my old stomping grounds. Absolutely loved the small business feel the place offers. We ordered a Pork Banh Mi, a bowl of their classic Pho, a Pork/rice dish, a dry noodle dish and a Classic Banh Mi and Vietnamese Iced coffee (Last two items to go). My teenagers liked their Pork items. I had a few bites of the Pork Banh Mi and thought it was pretty alright. The Pho looked the part, but it was unfortunately subpar. The meatballs in it were too soft (meatballs in Pho are usually more firm, with more bit and often with some tendons) and the meat seemed as though it had been boiled in the broth (its consistency wasn't good). The classic Banh Mi I took to go along the iced coffee. Sorry to say they did not hit the mark (either). I was expecting pate and Vietnamese sausage, but instead, I got some sort of minced meat. The iced coffee did not taste like Vietnamese coffee at all... maybe it was not prepared with condensed milk? The stored front was being manned by one guy. Service was timely and courteous.
First time trying this place. Nice quiet corner past Steinway St. Ordered the Grilled Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich to go. The baguette was light, airy and chewy. Chicken was tender and flavorful, nice chunks of meat, but had little burned parts. I don't like any blackened parts on my chicken, so I was displeased to have to try to pick these out in a sandwich that I just want to bite into and not deal with any pickings. Otherwise, it came with plenty of pickled carrot and daikon topping, which I liked. Perhaps it was because I made it a point to mention it to the server to include this, so they wouldn't skimp on it, as I read other reviews and wanted to be sure they'd put enough veg and pickled carrots and everything in. Cucumber was a long piece running lengthwise through the sandwich, which was not cut in half, nor was the long piece of cucumber cut. Had to just bite into each bite and bite away at the cucumber. Also, the cilantro was kind of a long piece running lengthwise through the long sandwich. Also, I told him Spicy, but it wasn't really spicy at all. This was fine, as I didn't want a fiery spice, but the spice level specification is a little inaccurate then if I said spicy, and it wasn't spicy at all. Didn't want it too bland, so I said spicy, but it really wasn't spicy. There was a little jalapeno slice in it, but nothing too overwhelming or hot. There was a lot of mayonnaise, which was fine and good with the rest of the fillings. The whole sandwich was not too heavy, and flavors were good to me, so I enjoyed it overall for a nice easy lunch, minus the blackened edges on the chicken. It's grilled chicken, so I guess it's normal to have some blackened parts, but I personally don't like this on any chicken or meat. Portion was good, it was a nice sized sandwich. This is the second banh mi sandwich I've had in Astoria. I would be interested to try the tofu or fish one.
Ordered: Grilled Chicken Banh Mi (~$11): Vietnamese-style lemongrass grilled chicken with mayo, butter, cucumber, cilantro, julienne carrots, and daikon radish served on a toasted French baguette; medium spice Aya's take: I came here on a whim as I drove by looking for something quick to eat to hold me for the next few hours. My order was ready within minutes and the worker was kind enough to bring it to my car right outside of the restaurant. My first impression was the French baguette was incredibly fresh, soft, and even a little sweet. The grilled chicken was decent but lacked flavor and there were some fattier pieces that honestly don't belong in a sandwich like this. The real disappoint was with all the toppings. The cucumbers were quite large and overpowering compared to the other toppings. There was literally 1 cilantro stem in the whole sandwich, which is a bummer because I love cilantro in a banh mi. I could also barely taste the daikon radish. And even at the medium spice level, it wasn't spicy so if I suggest going for a higher option if you want a bit of a kick. All in all, it kept me full for a couple hours but honestly wasn't super satisfying or on par with other great banh mi sandwiches I've had.
The air is getting chilly and we turn to our jackets to salvage in the ball of warmth. Finding a pho spot nearby Astoria is quite a challenge however we stumbled across this local spot. My friend and I ordered the beef pho and her husband ordered the pork banh Mi. We also shared fried shumai for the apps. Starting with the pho, the noodles were cooked perfectly and blended well with the broth itself. The beef balls were interesting as I never really had that in pho before! The broth itself is refreshing and not too bold/deep. We also ordered Thai iced tea & the lychee soda. I'm a big fan of sparkling water so this side really hit the spot. The service itself is friendly and attentive and wants to serve you wholeheartedly ing. I definitely will be coming back to try the banh mi's for myself.
I'm really impressed! The food is amazing and the delivery is extra amazing! Looking forward to ordering again soon thank you!! The first time I ate at this place was in person and I knew it was good! Cute on the inside, true Vietnamese gem!
The interior is pretty. The food presentation was good, but quality of the food itself could be improved. I ordered a bowl of pho, but the broth was very lackluster. The meatball was not good either, I couldn't finish it because it tasted gross. I'm reluctant to try other items on the menu.
Amazing Service Delicious Meal Hip Ambience Everything Fresh Awesome Playlist Highly recommend
I came here with my best friend for my birthday and the food was sooooooo good! We both loved the fried squid which we knew we would because we love calamari, so I recommend ordering that! We also got the tofu and fried fish banh mis. The tofu one wasn't as good as the fried fish one so I recommend getting the fried fish one. The service was great no complaints, we were served in at a nice pace and our food was brought out promptly. The space is clean and inviting, as it's easy to overlook this place but I recommend you stop in and get their banh MIs!!! I'm excited to try more from your menu. Thank you guys for my amazing birthday lunch with my bestie! Keep up the great work!
Ordered this for delivery and the sandwich came still piping hot which was a great sign. The baguette itself was fantastic because it was still warm and soft. The bbq pork had good flavor but I also felt they drenched it in Sriracha and maybe additional soy sauce which made it quite salty. The sandwich was good but left more to be desired. I think the portion was a little on the smaller side. No cucumbers or jalapeños that typically comes with a banh mi either.
The first time that I had Lotus1, I had a Pork Banh Mi to-go. I don't know if I was overly happy about having a Vietnamese restaurant within walking distance, and not having to take the train to Jackson Heights or Elmhurst. The sandwich tasted great. Really liked the daikon & radish slaw and cilantro & the meat had a nice soy lemongrass flavor, very juicy. I've dined in and have had to-go a few orders since then and everything has been underwhelming. Mostly had the Banh Mi (usually pork or chicken). And the Summer Rolls (dine in), which weren't filled with much lettuce carrot or mint, mostly noodle and a few half pieces of shrimp, rolled loosely, served with a flavorless peanut dipping sauce. For $9.00! I really wanted a mint item on a hot summer day! The times that I've waited for an order or dined in, I kept hearing the beep of a microwave. I'm not sure, but it seems like most of the food is prepared at that small counter behind their folding screen, I didn't hear any sizzle of grilling meat from any kitchen! I'm pretty sure that it's cooked in either a microwave or a convection oven. The pork has been more grisely lately and thr meat DOES have that texture of "microwaved meat"! Place is super cute on the inside, and you can tell that they put a lot of thought into interior design - even with the bathroom. I definitely want to steal some of those ideas for my place. It's a nice cute place for a group dinner or even a date, but the food is just very disappointing. Their staff is really nice, but I have to remember not to return there, because each time I'm still disappointed. And it's $11 for a Banh Mi. I'm assuming that their Pho broth is made from the Pho broth seasoning powder that you can buy at the Asian market. Most of the staff are Fujianese Chinese, not that it matters, but it may in paying better attention or having better ownership over the quality of the dishes.
The service was quick and server was friendly but the food was eh. :( The portions were small for the price on the apps (spring rolls and summer rolls), and the beef pho broth was super bland and the cuts of meat were not what I'm used to getting in a typical pho (instead of the rare brisket slices, it's more like sausage slices and thin bits of beef).
Cozy spot past Steinway! Small, no frills restaurant with friendly staff. Plenty of vegan options on the menu! I ordered the pho with vegan pork- the staff made sure to double check I also wanted vegan broth which was a nice touch! The bowls are HUGE and they don't skimp on the fillings. I would probably ask to add some more veggies though because there weren't really any there by default. The basil ginger lemonade was refreshing as well.
Always looking to try more Vietnamese food and saw this had good ratings in Astoria. Really underwhelmed, the Thai tea was the best thing out of my meal. The rolls were small and not filled with much, as you can see from the picture and seemed doused/wet as it looked like it was vacuum sealed. The pho had a weird taste and really no flavor to the broth-the meat was also not typical or what I've experienced before...even with all the condiments added. I ordered banh mi too and it was mostly 50% carrots-it was decent but not sure if I would come back. Maybe it's good for being one of few Vietnamese restaurants but not my taste.
I love this cute little restaurant but I wish my sandwich had more in it! There was not enough filling inside the giant baguette. Original sandwich (traditional bahn mi) Cost $10 Ordered for pickup and it was ready really fast Tasted great, but would double ingredients next time read more
11 months ago
Lotus 1 is a casual Vietnamese restaurant at 41-19 31st Ave in Astoria. It is known for its classic Vietnamese dishes, including pho, banh mi sandwiches, and bubble tea. Unlike District Siagon and Pho, they have kept a low key in Astoria and are off the beaten path, known only to long-term locals. I came here late summer as I was walking west along 31st Avenue and had eyed this place many times, yet never been inside. Lotus 1 is a tiny restaurant with few seats and is much smaller than its peers in the Vietnamese food category. I had the classic chicken sandwich, which was a little too spicy for my liking, but filling enough for dinner. Overall, a so-so experience. read more
1 year ago
Was excited to have found a Vietnamese place this neck o' the woods. I was surprised to see this little Asian restaurant sitting in my old stomping grounds. Absolutely loved the small business feel the place offers. We ordered a Pork Banh Mi, a bowl of their classic Pho, a Pork/rice dish, a dry noodle dish and a Classic Banh Mi and Vietnamese Iced coffee (Last two items to go). My teenagers liked their Pork items. I had a few bites of the Pork Banh Mi and thought it was pretty alright. The Pho looked the part, but it was unfortunately subpar. The meatballs in it were too soft (meatballs in Pho are usually more firm, with more bit and often with some tendons) and the meat seemed as though it had been boiled in the broth (its consistency wasn't good). The classic Banh Mi I took to go along the iced coffee. Sorry to say they did not hit the mark (either). I was expecting pate and Vietnamese sausage, but instead, I got some sort of minced meat. The iced coffee did not taste like Vietnamese coffee at all... maybe it was not prepared with condensed milk? The stored front was being manned by one guy. Service was timely and courteous. read more
First time trying this place. Nice quiet corner past Steinway St. Ordered the Grilled Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich to go. The baguette was light, airy and chewy. Chicken was tender and flavorful, nice chunks of meat, but had little burned parts. I don't like any blackened parts on my chicken, so I was displeased to have to try to pick these out in a sandwich that I just want to bite into and not deal with any pickings. Otherwise, it came with plenty of pickled carrot and daikon topping, which I liked. Perhaps it was because I made it a point to mention it to the server to include this, so they wouldn't skimp on it, as I read other reviews and wanted to be sure they'd put enough veg and pickled carrots and everything in. Cucumber was a long piece running lengthwise through the sandwich, which was not cut in half, nor was the long piece of cucumber cut. Had to just bite into each bite and bite away at the cucumber. Also, the cilantro was kind of a long piece running lengthwise through the long sandwich. Also, I told him Spicy, but it wasn't really spicy at all. This was fine, as I didn't want a fiery spice, but the spice level specification is a little inaccurate then if I said spicy, and it wasn't spicy at all. Didn't want it too bland, so I said spicy, but it really wasn't spicy. There was a little jalapeno slice in it, but nothing too overwhelming or hot. There was a lot of mayonnaise, which was fine and good with the rest of the fillings. The whole sandwich was not too heavy, and flavors were good to me, so I enjoyed it overall for a nice easy lunch, minus the blackened edges on the chicken. It's grilled chicken, so I guess it's normal to have some blackened parts, but I personally don't like this on any chicken or meat. Portion was good, it was a nice sized sandwich. This is the second banh mi sandwich I've had in Astoria. I would be interested to try the tofu or fish one. read more
Ordered: Grilled Chicken Banh Mi (~$11): Vietnamese-style lemongrass grilled chicken with mayo, butter, cucumber, cilantro, julienne carrots, and daikon radish served on a toasted French baguette; medium spice Aya's take: I came here on a whim as I drove by looking for something quick to eat to hold me for the next few hours. My order was ready within minutes and the worker was kind enough to bring it to my car right outside of the restaurant. My first impression was the French baguette was incredibly fresh, soft, and even a little sweet. The grilled chicken was decent but lacked flavor and there were some fattier pieces that honestly don't belong in a sandwich like this. The real disappoint was with all the toppings. The cucumbers were quite large and overpowering compared to the other toppings. There was literally 1 cilantro stem in the whole sandwich, which is a bummer because I love cilantro in a banh mi. I could also barely taste the daikon radish. And even at the medium spice level, it wasn't spicy so if I suggest going for a higher option if you want a bit of a kick. All in all, it kept me full for a couple hours but honestly wasn't super satisfying or on par with other great banh mi sandwiches I've had. read more
The air is getting chilly and we turn to our jackets to salvage in the ball of warmth. Finding a pho spot nearby Astoria is quite a challenge however we stumbled across this local spot. My friend and I ordered the beef pho and her husband ordered the pork banh Mi. We also shared fried shumai for the apps. Starting with the pho, the noodles were cooked perfectly and blended well with the broth itself. The beef balls were interesting as I never really had that in pho before! The broth itself is refreshing and not too bold/deep. We also ordered Thai iced tea & the lychee soda. I'm a big fan of sparkling water so this side really hit the spot. The service itself is friendly and attentive and wants to serve you wholeheartedly ing. I definitely will be coming back to try the banh mi's for myself. read more
1 year ago
I'm really impressed! The food is amazing and the delivery is extra amazing! Looking forward to ordering again soon thank you!! The first time I ate at this place was in person and I knew it was good! Cute on the inside, true Vietnamese gem! read more
The interior is pretty. The food presentation was good, but quality of the food itself could be improved. I ordered a bowl of pho, but the broth was very lackluster. The meatball was not good either, I couldn't finish it because it tasted gross. I'm reluctant to try other items on the menu. read more
2 years ago
Amazing Service Delicious Meal Hip Ambience Everything Fresh Awesome Playlist Highly recommend read more
3 years ago
I came here with my best friend for my birthday and the food was sooooooo good! We both loved the fried squid which we knew we would because we love calamari, so I recommend ordering that! We also got the tofu and fried fish banh mis. The tofu one wasn't as good as the fried fish one so I recommend getting the fried fish one. The service was great no complaints, we were served in at a nice pace and our food was brought out promptly. The space is clean and inviting, as it's easy to overlook this place but I recommend you stop in and get their banh MIs!!! I'm excited to try more from your menu. Thank you guys for my amazing birthday lunch with my bestie! Keep up the great work! read more
3 years ago
Ordered this for delivery and the sandwich came still piping hot which was a great sign. The baguette itself was fantastic because it was still warm and soft. The bbq pork had good flavor but I also felt they drenched it in Sriracha and maybe additional soy sauce which made it quite salty. The sandwich was good but left more to be desired. I think the portion was a little on the smaller side. No cucumbers or jalapeños that typically comes with a banh mi either. read more
The first time that I had Lotus1, I had a Pork Banh Mi to-go. I don't know if I was overly happy about having a Vietnamese restaurant within walking distance, and not having to take the train to Jackson Heights or Elmhurst. The sandwich tasted great. Really liked the daikon & radish slaw and cilantro & the meat had a nice soy lemongrass flavor, very juicy. I've dined in and have had to-go a few orders since then and everything has been underwhelming. Mostly had the Banh Mi (usually pork or chicken). And the Summer Rolls (dine in), which weren't filled with much lettuce carrot or mint, mostly noodle and a few half pieces of shrimp, rolled loosely, served with a flavorless peanut dipping sauce. For $9.00! I really wanted a mint item on a hot summer day! The times that I've waited for an order or dined in, I kept hearing the beep of a microwave. I'm not sure, but it seems like most of the food is prepared at that small counter behind their folding screen, I didn't hear any sizzle of grilling meat from any kitchen! I'm pretty sure that it's cooked in either a microwave or a convection oven. The pork has been more grisely lately and thr meat DOES have that texture of "microwaved meat"! Place is super cute on the inside, and you can tell that they put a lot of thought into interior design - even with the bathroom. I definitely want to steal some of those ideas for my place. It's a nice cute place for a group dinner or even a date, but the food is just very disappointing. Their staff is really nice, but I have to remember not to return there, because each time I'm still disappointed. And it's $11 for a Banh Mi. I'm assuming that their Pho broth is made from the Pho broth seasoning powder that you can buy at the Asian market. Most of the staff are Fujianese Chinese, not that it matters, but it may in paying better attention or having better ownership over the quality of the dishes. read more
The service was quick and server was friendly but the food was eh. :( The portions were small for the price on the apps (spring rolls and summer rolls), and the beef pho broth was super bland and the cuts of meat were not what I'm used to getting in a typical pho (instead of the rare brisket slices, it's more like sausage slices and thin bits of beef). read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
Cozy spot past Steinway! Small, no frills restaurant with friendly staff. Plenty of vegan options on the menu! I ordered the pho with vegan pork- the staff made sure to double check I also wanted vegan broth which was a nice touch! The bowls are HUGE and they don't skimp on the fillings. I would probably ask to add some more veggies though because there weren't really any there by default. The basil ginger lemonade was refreshing as well. read more
1 year ago
Always looking to try more Vietnamese food and saw this had good ratings in Astoria. Really underwhelmed, the Thai tea was the best thing out of my meal. The rolls were small and not filled with much, as you can see from the picture and seemed doused/wet as it looked like it was vacuum sealed. The pho had a weird taste and really no flavor to the broth-the meat was also not typical or what I've experienced before...even with all the condiments added. I ordered banh mi too and it was mostly 50% carrots-it was decent but not sure if I would come back. Maybe it's good for being one of few Vietnamese restaurants but not my taste. read more
4 years ago
*Edited to add they called us back after hanging up on us to apologize and correct our order. The food was okay, but unfortunately I don't think we will be returning. Went from 1 to 3 stars since they fixed our order We ordered take away. Two grilled pork pho. They sent us this. Not sure what it is, but it is not meat. Think it's fish and tofu? We've ordered this several times over the years, so we know what to expect. Called to have the order corrected, and was met with resistance and disbelief. They won't send us the corrected food. Very unhappy. Their food was generally delicious, so only order in person if you want to enjoy it read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
The past few years I've met a buddy of mine here for Bohn mi sandwiches and Vietnamese dumplings. Damn good at a decent price and just a few blocks from home. Recommended if you like quick Vietnamese plates read more
3 years ago
Despite being off the beaten path of Astoria eateries, I will happily trek to the depths of residential pathways to enjoy a hearty, delicious bowl of pho. I love this place for the way they treat vegetarians as equals and provide them as much variety as omnivores. It was refreshing to see so many options beyond the usual tofu entree, I regret that my first visit here wasn't made on an empty stomach, I would've ordered so much more. I ordered the veg chicken pho, fresh summer rolls and veg fish bahn mi. Summer rolls were a great light appetizer, like a little rice noodle salad with fresh peanut sauce. The bahn mi was incredibly delicious, the bread was soft and warm. Veggies were fresh and absolutely loved the soy fish that was like marinated tofu with seaweed. The star was definitely the pho, the broth was so savory and mock chicken was like a tofu roll with gluten based for a more accurate texture. The service was phenomenal, our server was incredibly attentive and friendly. I highly recommend this place for vegetarians especially, I will definitely be back to try other items! read more
What a great spot for budget friendly and quality Vietnamese food especially if you want take out! The staff is super warm and friendly. I came here after reading positive reviews and can saw the reviews and pictures match up. I got the chicken over rice and was very satisfied with the portions. My friend orders from this place once a week and says everything he's tried has been on point. Definitely check this place out! read more
2 years ago
6 years ago
Called in about 12 mins before closing for pickup and by the time I got there my order of three spicy bahn mi sandwiches. My friends and I had just come from a 9 hour dance practice, so we were STARVING and these sandwiches were HUGE and SATISFYING!!!! By the time we realized how good they were, it was too late to go back and order more. We were just being greedy at that point. Definitely swing by if you're in the area, call ahead so you don't have to wait read more
7 years ago
At first glance, it seems like a modest takeout joint with tables and no crowds. It looks like they just opened and haven't really gotten around to decorating. On closer inspection, I noticed they have a full menu of a lot of Vietnamese classics plus bubble tea. We got the pork sandwich and a papaya salad. The sandwich particularly was really delicious. The bread was crisp. The pork flavorful and not too fatty. The salad was totally as I expected. For solid Vietnamese food fast in a clean setting, i recommend it. If this place was in my neighborhood I'd probably be a regular. read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
Pictures posted on the site were so deceiving. Ordered their pork banh mi and classic. Who puts mayo in a classic banh mi sandwich? Two - there were no pate. Bread was stale and skimping on the filling. Looks nothing like the pictures they had posted. Definitely not worth $11 sandwich. So disappointing. read more
2 years ago
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6 years ago
Hands down my favorite and most worth-it Vietnamese restaurant in the area! Ordered multiple times! Love their rice combos especially the chicken. Also their pho is great and huge portions!! Also, have to highlight their bubble tea is AMAZINGGG you have to try! It's better than most of the bubble tea chains in the city in my opinion. read more
4 years ago
As a pho lover, I was craving pho this night and unfortunately this place did not hit the spot. I left full but still wanting pho. Looks like a Chinese take out restaurant from outside but they tried on the inside. Limited seating but there were only 2-3 parties total from 6-8pm; a lot of take outs. Extensive menu including vegan options and kimchi . The flavor of the broth was decent but not authentic nor flavorful enough. read more
4 years ago
Lotus1 .. is the one of my favorite places in Astoria.!! Love their food was so good and super healthy. Most of the time I ordered crispy spring roll vermicelli extra grilled pork for me and my husband, also Fried Squid to share. I will order the food from here again. :) read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
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More info about Lotus 1
4119 31st Ave
Astoria, NY 11103
Astoria
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(718) 956-3388
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