Vegan Sandwich at Mr.East Kitchen — kyu's Review (Mar 20, 2023)

So glad to have stumbled upon this sweet little restaurant in walking distance from the SF Caltrain station, and even happier to find a handful of vegan options on the #brunch/lunch menu! Thankfully I thought to reserve ahead on OpenTable, since the small, narrow space was absolutely jam-packed when we arrived Sunday at half-past noon. I can see why, though — great food with prompt, attentive service and reasonable prices (for the area) make this Thai/Vietnamese fusion spot a neighborhood gem. Swipe to see the bright, bustling, greenery-filled interior!
Their curries sounded delicious, but I felt like something on the lighter side, and this simple #sandwich fit the bill. It was tofu and sautéed spinach inside a pair of crisp hash brown patties, served with a vinaigrette-dressed spinach-and-kale salad on the side. It was just $9, but so beautifully presented (orchid and all!) that it could have passed for a much more upscale plate. The thin plank of fried #tofu was especially craveable: I don’t know how they did it, but it had this eggy, super chewy texture that I couldn’t get enough of — not crumbly, tough, or frangible like the tofu I’d press at home.
This eatery definitely caters to an omnivorous crowd, especially in its brunch menu, but the friendly staff and amazing value charmed me enough that I would drop by again if in the area. I’d even go out of my way to visit (and drag many friends along with me) if the Mr. East kitchen could find a way to veganize their pandan waffle or Thai tea French toast — please?