Nestled in Lafayette’s Time Plaza, Blu Basil Asian Fusion isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a love affair between Vietnamese tradition and Louisiana flair.
Here, steam rises from bowls of pho richer than a Cajun gumbo, and pineapple fried rice arrives in its own tropical husk, daring diners to taste the world in a single bite.
Owned by Vietnamese-American chef Dang Nguyen, whose childhood kitchen lessons birthed this savory sanctuary, Blu Basil dances on the palate with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a dash of Southern hospitality.
🌿 The Vibe: Modern Comfort Meets Global Soul
Step inside, and the sleek, modern décor whispers “stay awhile”—exposed brick, warm lighting, and a hum of conversation that feels like a Lafayette front porch on a summer night.
Whether it’s a date night or a solo culinary adventure, the ambiance wraps guests in a cozy embrace.
But the real magic? The aromas: lemongrass tangoing with sizzling ribeye, coconut shrimp whispering secrets of the Gulf, and the earthy perfume of bun bo hue—a spicy beef noodle soup that’s equal parts comfort and adventure.
It’s something you just have to experience to fully grasp.
🍍 Menu Standouts: A Symphony of Sweet, Savory, and Surprise
The Pineapple Fried Rice 🌟 isn’t just a dish; it’s a showstopper. Served in a hollowed-out pineapple, this golden medley of shrimp, sausage, and caramelized fruit is a tropical vacation on a plate.
For meat lovers, the Dang Ribeye—marinated for 18 hours and paired with panko-crusted mac and cheese—melts like Cajun jazz on the tongue.
Vegetarians aren’t left behind: the Coconut Shrimp Curry bathes tender tofu in a velvety golden broth, while Grilled Shrimp Vermicelli Bowls toss fresh herbs and peanut crunch into every forkful.
Don’t skip the Bun Bo Hue—a fiery noodle soup stacked with brisket, pork patties, and ham hock, or the Shaken Beef, where pear-glazed sirloin cubes sizzle alongside fried eggs.
And y’all, the Kimchi Fries? Imagine Cajun poutine’s wilder, spicier cousin.
🍹 Sip the Spirit of Fusion
Blu Basil’s bar shakes up cocktails as inventive as the menu.
The Blu Basil Martini—a verdant swirl of herbs and spirits—is a local legend, while the Good Morning Vietnam blends sake, lychee vodka, and elderflower liqueur into a drink that’s dangerously smooth.
Pair it with a frosty Vietnamese iced coffee, steeped tableside with chicory and condensed milk, for a caffeine kick that’ll have you two-stepping out the door.
🌟 Why It’s a Must-Visit
This ain’t just dinner—it’s a culinary passport. Blu Basil masters the art of balance: tradition and innovation, heat and sweetness, Lafayette charm and global zest.
Even the “off-menu” moments sing: a side of stir-fried tofu that outshines the mains, or a Cinnamon Delight dessert that tastes like Grandma’s kitchen—if Grandma vacationed in Hanoi.
Address: 5451 Johnston St, Lafayette, LA 70503
Phone: (337) 456-1120