I'm giving this place a high review because it touches a nostalgic memory of a time past, despite some obviously glaring issues. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon to a small family operation struggling to keep up with the customer demand. The service was slow (several tables got up and left after not being greeted/given menus/given tea) but they were obviously trying hard. The cook would run back and forth delivering orders, but the waiter was obviously confused/frazzled.
We ordered an app of satay peanut chicken skewers, one bowl of noodles each and a drink each. The satay skewers came relatively quickly, but they were not what we were expecting. Large chucks of chicken meat with not much peanut flavor or char, still not bad and edible. Our noodles took a long time to come out. A couple after us had their noodles before we did (I suspect they were regulars given the welcome they received). When our noodles did come, it was obvious why this place is so highly rated. The soup for the pho was authentic and delicious. The spices in the broth was nuanced and hard to find these days. Hats off to the chef behind the scene!
We never did get our drinks, since we watched them pull out cans from the kitchen to prepare them when our meal was already done. I just cancelled the drink order and paid the bill (cash or debit). Wish the service was better, but the food is definitely great!