Ingredient appreciation — what makes Cao Lau special

What sets Cao Lau apart is the handling of lemongrass. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the subtly sweet and spiced result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

fresh herbs added at the table are a defining characteristic. The a street banh mi counter atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had fresh sugarcane juice as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Cao Lau is the place to start.