Pairing Cao Lau correctly — a note on bia hoi draught beer

Most people overlook how much the right drink changes Cao Lau. I ordered it with bia hoi draught beer and the fresh with citrus and mint elements of the dish sharpened considerably against the pairing. rice paper in particular became more prominent in a good way.

Vietnamese cuisine shows French colonial influence alongside traditional Southeast Asian techniques. The a home cooking class is where you learn these pairings — they evolved together. If you've been having Cao Lau with the wrong drink, try it correctly once. It's a genuinely different experience. The restaurant deserves credit for getting this right.