Pearland is a small place in south Texas, situated off of 45 South 30 miles or so from Galveston. If you find yourself near there, schedule some time for Thanh Phuong and order the TP Special Rolls (Nem Nướng Cuốn) and the deep-fried rabbit.

The rolls are full of grilled pork – and it is crisp and rich and deep in flavor – and mint and a few other vegetables, but the pork stars.

And the rabbit. Several years ago while in Florence I happened across a restaurant and delighted in a perfect plate of rabbit, and since then have looked for another example. I found it in Pearland.

The rabbit at Thanh Phuong reminded me of a dish I loved in Florence several years ago.

The rabbit at Thanh Phuong reminded me of a dish I loved in Florence several years ago. 

The pieces of rabbit were dipped in a light, slightly sweet batter, a batter that included sesame seeds. It was fried along with garlic and a few pieces of ginger, whose taste was barely noticeable but proper, and plated with onions and peppers and a very pleasant acidic sauce.
Angela and I are already planning a return trip.