In the plaza best known for Cream Pan, there is a mild-mannered Vietnamese cafe called Long Hai. Months ago, we spotted “Coming Soon” signage for a California burrito joint (seriously?) next door, but for whatever reason that never came to fruition. Seems like the cafe took advantage of the open space, because another eatery is filling the void left by Manila Groove. The name: Short Hai Cafe.
A yin to Long Hai's yang, or reference to Indiana Jones? We'll know this Thursday, as they open their doors with a friendly deal for those trying to firm up lunch plans. Anytime the word “free” is involved, you know it will be ridiculous busy. And we found this off a strategic Facebook ad, which means even busier.
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The deal goes like this: The first 25 pairs of friends this Thursday and Friday will receive two Vietnamese fusion tacos on the house! Made fresh to order, the kitchen describes them as wholesome, delicious, fresh and funky. The line shouldn't be all that bad, though. After all, their catch phrase is “For those short on time.”
Short Hai opens at 11 a.m. They are giving the option of chicken or beef, but we're gonna try ordering one of each if they allow us. And be sure to BYOB, if you're cheap money-saving like that.
Short Hai Cafe is located at 678 El Camino Real in Tustin; www.shorthaicafe.com.
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A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.