We’ve been trying to get reservations forever! We had an absolutely incredible dining experience at Mot Hai Ba last night! This spot is such a unique and thoughtful fusion of Vietnamese soul and French technique. A huge highlight of our night was our waiter, Mate. He was excellent and coursed the meals out perfectly! he described every dish with great detail and passion, and his recommendations were a total 10/10. the only miss for us was the short rib. Compared to the explosive flavors of the other dishes, it just wasn’t as impressive to us. If we could do it over, we would have swapped it for the duck hearts or another fish dish. Our favorite dish was the branzino with a side of the mushrooms and the dirty rice to soak up the sauces. One thing to note is that the restaurant is quite small, so the indoor tables get reserved quickly. We dined in the covered patio on one of the colder days But the heaters and wearing a jacket helped. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend trying to snag an indoor spot. The creativity in the kitchen and the hospitality from Mate will definitely bring us back. A must-visit and impressive spot to bring a guest.
Mot Hai Ba
Excerpts
We’ve been trying to get reservations forever! We had an absolutely incredible dining experience at Mot Hai Ba last night! This spot is such a unique and thoughtful fusion of Vietnamese soul and French technique. A huge highlight of our night was our waiter, Mate. He was excellent and coursed the meals out perfectly! he described every dish with great detail and passion, and his recommendations were a total 10/10. the only miss for us was the short rib. Compared to the explosive flavors of the other dishes, it just wasn’t as impressive to us. If we could do it over, we would have swapped it for the duck hearts or another fish dish. Our favorite dish was the branzino with a side of the mushrooms and the dirty rice to soak up the sauces. One thing to note is that the restaurant is quite small, so the indoor tables get reserved quickly. We dined in the covered patio on one of the colder days But the heaters and wearing a jacket helped. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend trying to snag an indoor spot. The creativity in the kitchen and the hospitality from Mate will definitely bring us back. A must-visit and impressive spot to bring a guest.
We’re long-time Dallas foodies, and this was easily one of the best meals we’ve had. The service was outstanding, and our waiter took great care of us for our anniversary. Every dish was delicious — the leeks and the branzino are absolute must-tries. The only feedback I’d offer is to include at least one dessert option without alcohol. Because of our dietary restrictions, we couldn’t try any of the desserts. Other than that, everything was perfect. Highly recommend!
We’re long-time Dallas foodies, and this was easily one of the best meals we’ve had. The service was outstanding, and our waiter took great care of us for our anniversary. Every dish was delicious — the leeks and the branzino are absolute must-tries. The only feedback I’d offer is to include at least one dessert option without alcohol. Because of our dietary restrictions, we couldn’t try any of the desserts. Other than that, everything was perfect. Highly recommend!
Mot Hai Ba is a gem in Dallas. This small, unassuming eatery absolutely delivers big on flavor and experience. The duck is phenomenal—perfectly cooked, rich, and deeply satisfying. And the garlic noodles? Easily some of the best I’ve had anywhere: savory, aromatic, and impossible to stop eating. What really stands out is how this place captures the spirit and flavors of Asian-rim cuisine in a way you rarely find in an inland U.S. city. Every dish feels thoughtful and dialed-in. You can taste the care. If you know, you know—this spot is special. Cozy, delicious, and worth going out of your way for. Possibly one of the best takes on Asian-rim dining you’ll find in the U.S., period.