Coco Tang was the key that unlocked my taste buds and ignited my passion for exploring new foods. I used to be your classic beige food and no spice kind of girl, but when I stepped foot into the beautiful 1950s Saigon-style café bar, I knew that there was more to life than just smiley faces. Coco Tang is possibly the best place in town to branch out and get your hands on some delicious Vietnamese food.
One of the first things I love about this place is the service. It is not an exaggeration when I say you’ll receive your food within 15 minutes of ordering. With an array of dishes authentically inspired by Southern Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City, you can choose from dishes such as Pho, Tofu and Vietnamese spring rolls, soft shell crab, BBQ lemongrass chicken, and many more. I recently re-visited Coco and was absolutely thrilled when ordering the Pho to be asked: “how would you like your beef cooked?”. Such a simple improvement but boy did it make a hell of a difference! But if you don’t fancy some food, the café also offers classic Vietnamese coffee’s roasted in-house from a selection of single origin beans, as well as a selection of rare loose leaved herbal tea. And to compliment your hot drink, you can treat your sweet tooth from the range of freshly baked cakes, some of my favourites being the matcha and white chocolate cheesecake or Japanese roll cake (covered in hand decorated strawberries).
The décor of Coco is two floors filled with plants, light and wall art- commissioned by artist matetwo in support of their Vietnamese partner charity. The space transports you to Vietnam, with many of the tile’s hand-made there, carrying through the bespoke nature of the establishment. They even have a rooftop, which is a literal suntrap, perfect for avoiding the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
And if it couldn’t get any better, Coco Tang also has its very own club downstairs in the basement. The bar is electric in the evenings and is always my go-to on a night out with the girls. The bar is always full, and the drinks are always flowing, with many bespoke cocktails including, Fight Club, Regina George, and Endless Summer, and they do not skip on the alcohol! With intimate seating areas, including their lagoon, two bars and a dance floor, you can spend all night in here partying the night away.
Coco Tang has it all and sets the bar high for every other establishment in Nottingham. If you’re looking for a café, restaurant or bar, Coco Tang ticks all the boxes.