Sunset Noodle House: The Seed of Opportunity
Sunset Noodle House: The Seed of Opportunity
By: Karli J Walker
Welcome to Sunset Noodle House, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie. Founded by Trieu and Chan Ngo, this vibrant Vietnamese restaurant has quickly become a beloved destination for food lovers seeking an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Originally living in Toronto, Trieu, and Chan Ngo were captivated by the enchanting beauty of Batchawana Bay and the allure of the camping lifestyle. Their passion for both nature and Vietnamese cuisine led the couple to open their first restaurant in Batchawana Bay. Chan wanted “the Sault to experience—Vietnam in the middle of Batchawana.” After purchasing the Moose Track café and realizing it did not align with their vision, they made the decision to close its doors in 2019.
Determined to bring a taste of Vietnam to the community, the Ngo’s reopened the location in 2021 as the alluring Sunset Noodle House. After gaining a lot of popularity, the business opened its second location in the heart of downtown in 2023, located at 133 Spring Street. Chan Ngo, the co-owner and head chef, begins her day at 7 am, meticulously preparing the kitchen, seasoning each dish to perfection, and ensuring the highest quality of food. By 11:30 am, she gracefully takes her place in the front of the house, orchestrating plating perfection and prioritizing guests' satisfaction. Assisting her in this culinary symphony is her trusted sous chef, who has played a crucial role in perfecting some of the menu’s most popular dishes.
Chan believes that “food is the essence of life,” Food in Chan’s art, and she pours her heart into every aspect of her craft. From the carefully curated ingredients sourced locally and from Toronto to the thoughtfully selected bowls and plates, Chan’s attention to detail is evident in every bite. She understands that her guests work hard for their money and believes that her food should be an experience that leaves them feeling that their investment was well worth it. At Sunset Noodle House, Chan aims to ignite all five senses, offering a culinary journey that transports diners to the vibrant street of Hanoi, right here in Sault Ste. Marie.
Chan Ngo, Sunset Noodle House owner
Bringing this vision to life came with its fair share of challenges. The first hurdle was introducing the community to the delightful flavours of Vietnamese cuisine, which may be unfamiliar to some. The second challenge lay in procuring the necessary ingredients, with some unique items like lemongrass requiring imports from Toronto. Lastly, striking a balance between authenticity and innovation presented its own set of obstacles. However, Chan saw these challenges as opportunities for growth, both personally and within the community.
Chan extends her heartfelt gratitude to the people of Sault Ste. Marie and Batchawana for embracing Sunset Noodle House and offering her a chance to transform her passion into her daily work. She hopes that her restaurant becomes a haven for people to relish the same opportunities she was given to share her deep affection for food and community. Make sure to pay a visit to Sunset Noodle House and immerse yourself in the culinary marvels they offer. Stay connected through their lively social media presence for updates on exciting changes, such as the upcoming Karaoke Nights starting on July 28th. Join the celebration and experience the captivating allure of Sunset Noodle House.