First off, I'm Vietnamese. It takes a lot to impress me. I have eaten at most, if not all Viet restaurants in the immediate downtown core and I would definitely say that this place is close to the top of the list.
Why? It's simple. Food is just plain good. No gimmicks, no tricks. Just plain good. The menu is relatively small, and they are good at what they sell. A lot of of other pho places have endless menu options but half of the items are just plain horrible.
Top Menu items:
1. Bun Bo Hue
2. Banh Cuon
3. Any Pho bowl
4. Any Vermicelli bowl
Bun Bo Hue - basically heaven in a bowl. nice and spicy and they use a traditional pork broth. Lots of love in this dish. This is often my go to.
Their pho broth is awesome. Not to salty, and extremely flavourful. I also love of this place because they give you FRESH noodles. You have to ask for it though. Everywhere else is generally pre-packaged noodles. They don't skimp out on the fresh basil, lime, and bean sprouts either.
If you haven't tried Banh Cuon before, do it. Probably the best in the city. Well- portioned with vietnamese sausage crispy fried scallions - delicious!
Downside: Cash-only and small menu. But who cares?