This meal was complimentary, thanks to our sponsor. All opinions expressed are my own.
Vietnam Deli in Kailua Town — brought to you by the same owners as the Ripple of Smiles (formerly located in Kaimuki) — is bringing bold, plant-based Vietnamese flavors to the Windward side, and it's a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The menu is fully flexible, offering both traditional and vegan-friendly options — which makes it a great choice for mixed-diet groups.
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Each dish on the menu can be made with regular proteins like chicken, beef, or pork, or with vegan alternatives such as tofu, vegan meat, or vegan fish. We opted for all vegan versions — partly because my husband doesn't eat meat, and partly because I was curious if the plant-based versions could really hold up. Spoiler: they absolutely can!
We started with the vegan spring rolls, which were fresh, crunchy, and paired perfectly with a savory dipping sauce.
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The banh mi with vegan fish was surprisingly good — a fun and unique take that still delivered the signature textures and tastes you'd expect from a traditional banh mi.
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The pho noodles came with a rich, aromatic broth that was deeply satisfying, even without meat. It had layers of flavor and felt like a cozy, nourishing bowl.
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We washed it all down with a refreshing ginger lemonade and Thai iced tea, both of which were great complements to the meal.
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Whether you're fully plant-based or just looking to try something new, Vietnam Deli proves you don’t need meat to enjoy delicious Vietnamese food. It's the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner in Kailua — and a great fit for the neighborhood’s laid-back, health-conscious vibe.
Free Parking available behind the building.
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VIETNAM DELI
573 Kailua Road
808-754-1056
