A taste of Vietnamese culture is coming to Westchester County.
Hungry customers can pull up a chair at Saigon Table at 12 Purdy Ave. in Rye this week.
It was a labor of love, months in the making.
The new eatery has been preparing for the soft launch on Tuesday, but business was buzzing at the restaurant days before the official opening as customers trailed in to see the new restaurant in town.
The restaurant - built by Rye native Andy Belluscio - transports diners to Saigon, Vietnam.
Rye resident and owner Lynn Lee says she was inspired by the southeast Asian city she is from - which is apparent in the light brown bamboo, woven lamps, colorful LED lights, the TV display and the food on the menu.
The fast-casual restaurant aims to provide healthy options.
Fresh herbs and vegetables are cooked into traditional dishes like pho, Vietnamese egg rolls, vermicelli and tamarind pork ribs.
"They're very adamant about making everything from scratch. So, all the sauces are made in-house, and everything is made from scratch," said owner Lynn Lee.
"A lot of these are Lynn's recipes that she brought us in and kind of gave it a little flare to them. Very traditional stuff but a little elevated... We're really excited to bring it to people," said Chef Jonn Lim.
Behind the counter, a juicer presses fresh orange juice and limeade.
Guests can wash the dishes down with wine, beer and cocktails or sip on Vietnamese coffee.
There are options like pandan chiffon cake, for those with a sweet tooth.
The grand opening on Thursday, May 23 kicks off at 11:30 a.m.
The timely opening also arrives during Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
