The Toronto Lover system:
5 stars = Must visit!
4 stars = Really good. I take my friends here.
3 stars = Somewhat worth it... if you have nowhere better to go.
2 stars = Below average. Attend only when necessary.
1 star = Do not visit!
Xe Lua is a bit like a cafeteria for people who don't want to wait or pay much for food at strange hours. They serve decent pho and tasty soups, and everything is in the $6-10 range. The service is terrible, but your order will be taken and the food will arrive, and you shouldn't expect any more.
I like the fact that it's upstairs, because it creates a cleaner essence than other late night Spadina dives. However, I wouldn't bet that you can name everything that goes in the broth.
What can I say about this place: it serves up good stuff at good prices; it's always open; and there's always a seat. Another bonus - and forgive me if you're into political correctness - is that East Asian people do seem to frequent this place, which gives it an air of authenticity, even if it's superficial.
Have a soup, and enjoy those noodles. I can't recommend anything else.
2 stars