Van Expresso Bar in Clovelly Serves Vietnamese Dishes with a French Twist

A small but classy-looking cafe has recently opened a shop on Clovelly Road to elevate this precinct’s food scene. Van Expresso Bar serves mainly Vietnamese dishes but its chef expertly fuses her creations with French influences. 

Chef Anna Bach-Cuc Kellett runs Van Expresso Bar with her partner Vladimir Vujovic, after successfully running the Italian restaurant Young Alfred in Sydney CBD. The couple decided to open this Vietnamese establishment to showcase Kellet’s heritage. 

However, Kellet insists that the menu at their restaurants shouldn’t be described as a fusion but as “food without boundaries.” Indeed, a quick sweep on the food list might confuse first-timers since it’s rather extensive. There are also Japanese, Thai, Korean and Chinese influences in some of the dishes.



The most recommended dishes to order at Van Expresso Bar are its juicy and flavourful pork and prawn dumplings, san choy bow, and market fish curry with fried sweet rice bun. For breakfast or brunch lovers, it’s best to try the French toast with banh mi, and crepes with sweet oyster omelets. All the ingredients are locally sourced and served fresh every day. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Those looking for a nightcap might be surprised to find Van Expresso Bar quite busy on a weeknight. Clovelly’s night scene isn’t exactly bustling compared to other precincts but this bar attracts the night owls hankering for some fruity cocktails and soothing drinks. They have an expansive collection of wines. 

Because of its cosy and intimate interiors, Van Expresso Bar makes for an ideal dating spot as well. Cliques also hang out here for the Illy Espresso and some bubble tea during lazy afternoons. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Van Expresso Bar’s hours of operation are:

Monday to Tuesday: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Wednesday to Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday to Sunday: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.



“Best Vietnamese food in Sydney. The dumplings and the lemon tart are so outstanding. Small and cozy restaurant for a great experience!

~ Quentin Eysseric, Facebook

“Good atmosphere and great service. The menu is a delicately curated mix of Asian flavors that changes according to the season (love that!). Has a good selection of wines and yummy cocktails.”

~ Ana Marcela Botero Bernal, Google Reviews