Lush flowers hang from the ceiling as sprawling tendrils of ivy decorate the walls. The smell wafting through the cozy atmosphere is heavenly, reminiscent of a home cooked meal sprinkled with love.

No, this paradise is not a magical fairy wonderland or tropical palace — instead, it’s Houston’s finest vegetarian Vietnamese restaurant: Hương Sen.

Coming from a Buddhist family, it’s common for relatives of mine to adopt a vegetation diet for periods of time, usually to upload the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence), aiming to reduce suffering of sentient beings. This makes Hương Sen a reliable place to grab a healthy, tasty meal!

Sweet and Sour Soup 9/10

I admit — this dish requires an acquired taste due to its pungent herbs and savory fish sauce. Usually, I wouldn’t reach for it, but Hương Sen’s chefs made it with such beauty — the vibrant colors drew me in. I enjoyed the pronounced tanginess of the dish, which worked in tandem with its sweet aftertaste. Served with tofu, peppers, bean sprouts and cilantro, this dish is a staple at Vietnamese tables!

Egg rolls 10/10

Hương Sen’s egg rolls were a pleasant surprise for me. Instead of your traditional Vietnamese vegetarian filling, they were stuffed with a savory, chunky paste which reminded me of curry. The outside was a crispy golden brown, and the inside was perfectly seasoned.

Spring Salad 8/10

The spring salad gets its name from its “light” balance and tangy aftertaste. It’s filled with thinly sliced carrots, cucumbers and spring beans. However, its flavor was a little more bland than other spring salads I have had. Other than that, Hương Sen’s take on the spring salad was exceptional, turning this staple into something truly their own, with their expert combination of sour and sweet sauces.

Faux “Fish” 6/10

Usually eaten during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), this dish is a classic for a Vietnamese restaurant. Instead of real meat, Hương Sen’s faux fish is made from a tofu and mushroom blend. While I enjoyed its sweet seasoning, I was thrown off by its over-rubbery texture.

Overall Thoughts

If you are undecided on what to eat, step outside your comfort zone and into Hương Sen, located at Bellaire Boulevard in Chinatown. Both nutritious and satisfying, its flavorful dishes promise a dining experience that is truly unforgettable!