Sweet Sunset
Sweet Sunset is a Vietnamese cafe offering a selection of innovative menu items, from caffeinated drinks to fun, handheld eats.
Traditional Vietnamese favourite flavours, that add a vibrant colour and taste to every bite, meet global culinary influences at this Little Italy hub.Housed on the bustling College St. (occupying the former Kiss My Pans space), siblings Dung and Parker Nguyen operate the business.
They've combined their talents with food and hospitality to create this laid-back and tranquil café.While their bar area is embellished with aesthetically pleasing bohemian ceramic tiles, my attention is drawn to the exclusive banquet seating tucked away at the rear, illuminated by their sun logo neon signs.
Inside, you'll discover a cozy nook outfitted with bean bag chairs and handmade tire-shaped tables, all adorned in a striking zaffre blue, providing an ideal spot for unwinding on a leisurely afternoon.I tried some of their signature Vietnamese drip coffees topped with foam, including this cream cheese coffee ($5.95).
Though I typically don't prefer cream cheese, the robust coffee underneath the creamy foam offsets its intense texture, resulting in a more palatable flavour profile for those who aren't fans of cheese.
Their light green-hued Pandan coffee ($5.95) introduces a unique twist to the classic cream foam coffee, thanks to the infusion of pandan flavorings.
Make sure to scoop up the pandan cream with the rolled wafer garnish before indulging in your first sip.
Among all the beverages listed, my favourite leans toward the traditional Vietnamese egg coffee ($5.95), featuring layer of sweet and thickened egg yolk mixture, all finished with sprinkles of cocoa powder.
Its velvety custard-like texture resembles a combination of crème brûlée and tiramisu, without the cake and crunchy components.
Although their coffee drinks take the centre stage, Sweet Sunset's menu also boasts a variety of main dishes and small plates.
Tacos Sunset ($8.95) is an appetizing option for sharing. Grilled tortillas stuffed with thinly sliced beef steak, avocado, onions, and drizzles of chipotle and lemongrass aioli ensure a flavorful and aromatic delight in every bite.
Unlike the Taiwanese-style variation seasoned with flavorings, these Fried Popcorn Chicken ($6.95) pieces come with an irresistible sweet and sour sauce, making it effortless for me to devour the entire plate in one go.Vietnamese Escaping beef steak ($15.95), also known as Bo Nie, is comprised of marinated beef slices, Vietnamese pork sausage, fried egg, cheese, and liver spread resting on a bed of sweet and savoury sauce reminiscent of teriyaki dressing.
I’d suggest savouring this plentiful platter by dipping the crispy Vietnamese baguette bun into the sauce, or loading it up with the toppings.
Let Sweet Sunset Crepe Cake ($8.95) be the perfect conclusion to your meal.
This sweet treat presents a harmonious medley of ripe banana, smooth chocolate sauce and fluffy whipped cream, keeping each mouthful a pure enjoyment.
Sweet Sunset is located at 567 College St, unit 101.
Fareen Karim