You Can't Spell Beer Without "Mekong"

Ok, so obviously that title isn't literally true, but if you've ever visited Mekong here in Richmond, you'll know what I mean.  For the second year in a row, Vietnamese restaurant Mekong (located near Broad and Staples Mill Road) has won the number one spot for "Great American Beer Bars" in the region and the nation.  This past weekend, I decided it was high time to find out what all the buzz was about Mekong.

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Situated in a strip mall-like building near Willow Lawn, the exterior is anything but impressive.  However, the interior is open and welcoming, with a rich-wood bar and plenty of high-top tables nearby.  And the beer selection is phenomenal!  Mekong boasts over 50 craft beers on tap and over 200 bottle offerings.  Beer director An Bui explains that at Mekong, "beer is the answer" -- and I would assert that they've provided a variety of answers from which to choose!  Even the pickiest of beer aficionados should be able to find something to their taste.  I sampled my friends' choices of a Singel, a sour beer, and a few others (including a spunkily-named PocaHOPtas beer!), but settled on the Allagash White, a traditional Belgian wheat ale, for myself.  Coupled with the most delicious spring rolls I have ever eaten, I was one happy chick!

Although craft beer has a reputation for being expensive, Mekong's prices were fairly reasonable, varying from $4 to $7 depending on serving size and bottle versus draft.  The food prices were also affordable; two spring rolls were only $1.50 and were served with an interesting sweet and sour sauce.

As I was designated driver, I was unable to sample or evaluate more beers than that, but I plan to return as soon as possible.  If you're ever in Richmond, I strongly encourage you to stop by for a beer and a meal!

Have you been to or heard about Mekong before?

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