Covent Garden, London – A highly anticipated culinary arrival is set to grace London’s vibrant Covent Garden district as Cô Thành, a Vietnamese restaurant paying homage to the globally renowned street food vendor Nguyễn Thị Thanh, prepares to open its doors. The new establishment will occupy the prominent Henrietta Street site previously home to the acclaimed Frenchie restaurant, led by Chef Greg Marchand.
This opening marks a significant moment, bringing the authentic flavours of Southern Vietnamese street food, inspired by the legendary figure known affectionately as ‘The Lunch Lady,’ to a prime central London location. The original Cô Thành was established in Hong Kong in 2017 by Brandon Woo, who honed his skills training under Thị Thanh herself in Ho Chi Minh City. The London outpost will be the second location for Cô Thành.
Honoring a Street Food Icon
The inspiration behind Cô Thành is rooted in the enduring legacy of Nguyễn Thị Thanh. Operating a humble street food stall in Ho Chi Minh City, Thị Thanh gained international fame following her appearance on the late Anthony Bourdain’s influential travel and food series, No Reservations, in 2009. Bourdain’s feature catapulted her unique approach to simple, flavourful, and constantly changing dishes into the global consciousness, solidifying her reputation as a master of Southern Vietnamese cuisine. Her passing in 2021 was mourned by food enthusiasts worldwide.
Brandon Woo, the driving force behind Cô Thành, trained extensively with Thị Thanh, absorbing her techniques and understanding of the intricate balance of flavours that defines her style. His decision to launch Cô Thành is a direct tribute to her influence and a commitment to preserving and sharing her authentic culinary heritage with a wider audience.
A New Chapter on Henrietta Street
The choice of the former Frenchie site on Henrietta Street places Cô Thành in a prestigious culinary neighbourhood within Covent Garden. Frenchie, under Greg Marchand, was a celebrated fixture known for its modern European cuisine with French influences. Cô Thành’s move into this space signals a diversification of the area’s high-profile dining scene, introducing distinct Vietnamese flavours and a different dining philosophy.
The renovation and preparation of the Henrietta Street location have been keenly watched, promising a setting that reflects the spirit of Cô Thành while adapting to the demands of a central London restaurant space. The transition from a French fine-dining leaning establishment to an authentic Vietnamese eatery highlights the dynamic evolution of London’s gastronomic landscape.
The Culinary Offering: Southern Vietnamese Delights
The menu at Cô Thành in Covent Garden is poised to focus squarely on Southern Vietnamese specialities, echoing the dishes made famous by ‘The Lunch Lady.’ Diners can anticipate a selection of deeply flavourful and aromatic noodle soups and other regional staples.
Highlight dishes confirmed for the menu include Bún Thái, a spicy and sour seafood noodle soup; Bún Mắm, a fermented fish noodle soup known for its pungent aroma and complex flavour; and Bún bò Huế, a spicy beef noodle soup originating from the city of Huế, though prepared in a Southern style. These dishes represent some of the cornerstones of Vietnamese comfort food, each offering a distinct taste profile.
Adding to the appeal will be a selection of Bánh Mì, the iconic Vietnamese baguette sandwich. Cô Thành’s offering will feature diverse fillings, including a version with five types of pork charcuterie and another showcasing tender 12-hour beef shank. These sandwiches provide a more casual, yet equally authentic, dining option.
Beyond the savoury dishes, the menu will also feature traditional Vietnamese desserts, offering a sweet conclusion to the meal with characteristic textures and ingredients.
Beverage Program
Complementing the food menu, Cô Thành will offer a carefully curated selection of beverages. The drinks list is set to include natural wines, aligning with contemporary dining trends, alongside a range of cocktails. For non-alcoholic options, diners can choose from refreshing smoothies, fresh juices, and authentic Vietnamese coffee.
Expanding a Successful Concept
The London opening represents an important expansion for Cô Thành following the success of its initial location in Hong Kong, which opened in 2017. That first outpost quickly gained acclaim for its genuine portrayal of Thị Thanh’s cuisine. Bringing the concept to London, one of the world’s foremost culinary capitals, is a testament to the universal appeal of the food and the enduring legacy of ‘The Lunch Lady’.
The opening of Cô Thành on Henrietta Street is eagerly awaited by London’s diverse food community and those familiar with the legacy of Nguyễn Thị Thanh. It promises to be a significant addition to Covent Garden’s dining scene, offering a taste of authentic Southern Vietnamese heritage in a celebrated location.
