Monday Munchies is supported by Botanica.
When Monday munchies strike, sometimes a savory snack just won’t cut it. For a sweet twist on your cravings, head to Ha Long Bay on Tucson’s east side. Luckily, the longtime Vietnamese spot has the cure. Its freshly fried banana dessert is crispy, creamy and drizzled with honey to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ha Long Bay’s fried banana (called chuối chiên in Vietnamese) arrives as four petite bananas in a funnel-cake-like batter. Chefs fry each to a golden crunch and immediately slather on feathery light whipped cream. Next, they drizzle warm honey over the crispy bites. Each piece delivers a glorious mix of textures and flavors: crunchy batter, soft banana, sticky-sweet honey and cloud-like cream. Every bite is a little carnival of sweet, fried goodness.
But this indulgent dessert shines even brighter alongside the right companion. So try it with a boba milk tea or Ha Long Bay’s signature salty lemonade for a refreshing contrast. If you’re finishing a spicy pho or lemongrass chicken dinner, even better. The fried banana makes the perfect finale, soothing any spice with its gentle sweetness. It’s a munchies fix that will leave you blissfully satisfied and maybe even reaching for a second order.
For over 20 years, Ha Long Bay has been serving Tucson. It has built a loyal following for its authentic Vietnamese flavors, earning a spot among Tucson’s best Vietnamese restaurants. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days, offering everything from pho to spring rolls. But don’t skip dessert.
Read our 2017 article “Ha Long Bay”: 15 Years of Vietnamese Cuisine in Tucson.
Ha Long Bay is located at 7245 E. Tanque Verde Rd. For more information, visit halongbaymenu.com.
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