Bún Gà Nướng Sả is a Vietnamese dish that showcases the extraordinary versatility of lemongrass. At Bolsa Restaurant, chicken thighs are marinated in freshly pounded lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and a hint of chili before being grilled over high heat. The lemongrass caramelises on the chicken's surface, creating golden, fragrant pieces with a beautifully charred edge and tender, juicy interior.
The grilled lemongrass chicken is sliced and placed over a generous bed of rice vermicelli noodles alongside a fresh herb arrangement of mint, cilantro, shredded lettuce, bean sprouts, sliced cucumber, and pickled daikon and carrot. Our house nuoc cham — made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili — brings all the components together in classic Vietnamese fashion. This is fresh, aromatic, satisfying Vietnamese food at its best, right in the heart of southeast Calgary.
Why Lemongrass Makes This Dish Special
Lemongrass (sả) is one of the defining aromatics of Vietnamese cuisine. Its bright, citrusy-floral scent infuses the chicken with a flavour that is uniquely Southeast Asian — perfumed and complex without being overpowering. When grilled, lemongrass-marinated chicken develops a sticky caramelised glaze that keeps the meat moist while delivering incredible aroma. It is one of the reasons Bolsa Restaurant's vermicelli bowls have earned such a devoted following in Calgary SE.
Customise Your Bowl
At Bolsa, your Bún Gà Nướng Sả arrives with the garnishes and nuoc cham on the side so you can control the flavour balance. Pour the dipping sauce over the noodles and toss everything together, or dip each piece of chicken individually for more control. Add fresh chili for heat, extra lime for brightness, or a dash of sriracha for a deeper kick. There is no wrong way to enjoy this bowl.
Serving Southeast Calgary Since 2005
Bolsa Restaurant has been a trusted part of the southeast Calgary food scene since July 2005. Located at 180 94 Ave SE in Macleod Plaza, we are easily accessible from Acadia, Haysboro, Southwood, Fairview, and all surrounding neighbourhoods. Enjoy dine-in in our welcoming, fully licensed dining room, or order online for quick and easy takeout after work or on weekends.
