A VIETNAMESE ex-pat, who was irresistibly drawn to York, has launched the city’s first Vietnamese restaurant.

Coto, which has opened in Swinegate, is the brainchild of former accountant Anh Dao.

Anh, 37, who grew up in Hanoi, in northern Vietnam, moved to the UK with her husband 13 years ago.

They travelled around the country, originally settling in Leeds, where Anh opened Nom Deli, before moving to York, where the couple live in Fulford with their two young sons.

Anh said: “I have really fallen in love with York; it is one of my favourite towns in the UK.

“There are loads of similarities between York and Hanoi, particularly the old quarter of Hanoi, with its tiny, twisty streets.”

She recognised a gap in the city’s food scene for her homeland’s unique cuisine, which also has a French-colonial influence, and set her sights on opening Coto.

The name comes from a Vietnamese island that is popular with tourists, but remains unspoiled by tourism, she said.

Co To island, in Quang Ninh province in the northeast of the country, has a special place in Anh’s heart.

“It has managed to retain its true beauty. It is an inspiration to me,” she said.

The restaurant is also decorated with murals inspired by Anh’s homeland, including a typical street scene from her favourite town in Vietnam, former port Hoi An.

Anh’s food is influenced by different regions all over Vietnam, from the depth of flavours and spices in the north to the sweeter flavours of the south.

She said: “My big passion is cooking. I love learning all the techniques and this is food that is close to my heart.”

Everything on the menu is prepared fresh every day, with options for both vegan and gluten-free diners.

Lighter ‘street bites’ include spring rolls, savoury pancakes, fritters and skewers, while mains and specials include broths that are simmered overnight for a more intense flavour and curry.

Coto has six members of staff, including two chefs who, like Anh, are from Vietnam.

See @CotoYork on Facebook for more details.