Sunflower was originally opened in North Austin off Research Boulevard in 1999 by Dang’s mother Nancy, and it was one of the only Vietnamese restaurants in the area at the time, Dang said. Her mother closed and sold the restaurant in 2016.
“When she closed, the community was really sad,” Dang said.
Sunflower’s new location in McNeil Crossing was opened with the help of Dang’s mother in 2021. Much of the original restaurant’s cooking staff made a return along with many longtime customers.
While the restaurant has trimmed its menu from the original, serving authentic food true to the first restaurant remains a priority, Truong said. This includes the dish that put Dang’s mother on the map 20 years ago—Sunflower Crepes, made with turmeric flour and a protein of choice.
In addition to modernizing the menu, the interior of the restaurant is also important for the owners.
“Food, of course, is important, but we want to create an experience for the customers,” Truong said.
Dang and Truong said they are committed to maintaining the standard set by Dang’s mother in 1999.
“Never in a million years did I think that all the old customers would come back and the neighborhood would be so warm and receiving of us,” Dang said. “We took a leap of faith. We’re so grateful.”
Sunflower Vietnamese Cuisine
6001 W. Parmer Lane, Ste. 440, Austin
512-291-6749
www.sunflowerrestaurants.com
Hours: Mon.-Tue., Thu.-Sun. 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.;
closed Wed.
