XICHLO

With steam rising gently from a clear soup rich in savory broth aromas, a bowl of pho here invites ordering any time of day or night. Located close to Hamadayama Station, NEW Cyclo Cafe Aoki Papaya no Kaori (NEWシクロCafe 蒼きパパイヤの香り) serves a varied lineup of pho, from classic chicken or beef to seafood and coriander with pork, highlighting the harmony between noodles and toppings. Slurping the smooth rice noodles together with the gentle broth brings a deep, soothing warmth.

When you want something more substantial, there is also a generous selection of rice dishes and curries. The curries each offer distinct character, including the tomato-based Cyclo Curry with its pleasant kick, the Saigon Curry highlighted by mellow coconut milk, and the sweet Mekong Curry. Lunchtime combination sets let you enjoy both pho and curry in a single meal, making for a thoroughly satisfying midday pause.

Small-plate Asian starters are equally abundant, from banh xeo with its crisp pancake shell packed with fillings to fresh spring rolls served with sweet or miso dipping sauce. Pairing these with Asian alcoholic drinks such as Saigon Beer, 333 (Ba Ba Ba), or a lotus tea highball makes evening hours all the more lively.

During cafe hours, you can also stop in for a banh mi filled with mackerel and egg or liver pâté, or unwind with Vietnamese coffee and che for dessert. Dogs are welcome inside, and with dedicated dog meals and snack options available, the cafe provides an inviting place to drop by while out on a walk.