HằNG | Where Vietnamese Cuisine Reaches New Heights in Montreal
As the vibrant food capital of Canada, our city is constantly buzzing with new culinary hotspots. From trendy eateries to upscale dining experiences, it has it all. However, there has been one missing piece in the puzzle of Montreal’s diverse culinary scene: Vietnamese fine cuisine. But fear not, foodies, because Hằng is about to shake things up!
The first haute cuisine Vietnamese restaurant in Montreal, Hằng is set to open its doors on May 25th and bring a new level of sophistication to Vietnamese cuisine. As part of the renowned hospitality group JEGantic’s portfolio, it promises to elevate traditional Vietnamese dishes into a refined dining experience that celebrates the unique flavours of the Southeast Asian country.
John Edward Gumbley, the visionary president of JEGantic, found inspiration for Hằng during his travels to Vietnam. He fell in love with the robust flavours and fusion of Asian and French influences in Vietnamese cuisine, particularly with the classic noodle soup, pho. This ignited his imagination, and he envisioned taking the ingredients of pho to new heights.
Gumbley then partnered with Kaje Kandiah, and together they sought out Marylyn Tran, the owner of Tran Cantine, a local Vietnamese food gem known for its modern twist on traditional recipes. Marylyn Tran, despite her youthful appearance, is a veteran in the restaurant scene with a rich background in her family’s renowned restaurant, Pho Tay Ho.
With her expertise in modernizing Vietnamese cuisine while honouring its traditions, Tran was the perfect partner to bring Gumbley’s vision to life. And thus, Hằng was born, named after Tran’s mother, who still manages the iconic Pho Tay Ho.
Hằng (meaning “constantly” in English) pays homage to Vietnam’s culinary heritage by offering Vietnamese haute cuisine with recipes passed down through generations of the Tran family, infused with an innovative twist. The menu features familiar favourites like Tran’s raw beef salad, alongside new creations that showcase cherished Vietnamese flavours and textures.
Prepare your taste buds for elevated versions of classic dishes, such as pho with wagyu and bone marrow, and banh mi sandwiches with decadent foie gras. But the most deliciously sweet dish may be Hằng‘s dessert – creamy coconut banana flan.
But Hằng isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience. As you step through its doors, you’ll be transported to the vibrant and lush landscapes of Vietnam. Gone are the simplistic decor and humble surroundings typically associated with Vietnamese eateries. Instead, the interior design brings to life the exotic nature elements that echo the dense greenery of Da Nang’s jungle.
The soaring ceilings and striking wood columns add a touch of grandeur to the intimate 1,800 square feet space. With these captivating elements, Hằng offers a breathtaking atmosphere that beautifully complements its exceptional Vietnamese cuisine.
Hằng isn’t just about food—it’s about the entire experience. The mixologists at its upscale cocktail lounge combine Vietnamese spices and ingredients to create tantalizing cocktails. And for those seeking a hands-on experience, there’s the DIY MIX, allowing guests to craft their own specialty cocktails.
Gumbley sums it up perfectly: “We wanted to bring the vibrant flavours of Vietnam into a world of sophisticated cocktails and an ambiance of warmth.” With Hằng, JEGantic and Tran invite you to immerse yourself in their exciting world, where the jungles of Da Nang meet an inner-city metropolitan lifestyle.
Here is what you need to know about Hằng
Location: 686 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, Quebec H3C 1J2
Opening Date: Thursday, May 25th, 2023
Hours of Operation
Wednesday: 5 PM – 12 AM
Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
Friday: 5 PM – 2 AM
Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
Sunday: 5 PM – 12 AM
Monday and Tuesday: Closed
Website: hangbar.ca
Reservations: hangbar.ca/reservations
Contact: 514.910.ABAR (2227) | concierge@hangbar.ca
Instagram: @hang_montreal
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