Rua Vang overcomes significant ergonomic and aesthetic challenges to rise well above the din the comprises Vietnamese cuisine in the GTA.
Let's ignore the accolade tossing - best in the city, best in the GTA, best in North America - because when it comes to Pho it just seems to make people defensive.
I've consumed the noodle soup of dreams all around the world; throughout N. America, Europe, Asia, and yes, even a little out of the way spot know as VIET NAM. The GT serves a credible, tasty version - usually. The problem they run into is one of consistency...they are subject to lapses. I've been served some world class broth on one event only to return a few weeks later to some stuff that I am pretty convinced originated from a cube - yep, we're talking straight up Phullion (pho + bullion for the slower set) here people!
People; This place is NOT just about Pho. They do serve a pretty comprehensive menu and when I've gone deeper into their rotation I've actually always been pleasantly surprised.
The recent remodel is kind of amusing insofar as it seems as though the dial on the time machine got stuck in the mid-80s with a distinct Patrick Nagel vibe going on - think Vietnamese restaurant Los Angeles circa 1985 and you've got the picture.
Worth a go, but don't let the hype fuel your expectations.