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| - I was more than hesitant to give "Pho-nix" (as it is affectionately nicknamed by someone who introduced it to me) a chance for the longest time, but seeing as how it is consistently busy and considering how large and varied the menu is, I've since become something of a regular.
Despite the numerous other Vietnamese beef noodle soup restaurants that are but a stone's throw away (and are argued to be superior by people who know their pho), there are a number of reasons why Pho Phoenix is just right sometimes.
For starters, their "small" size is actually small. Hallelujah, anyone else!? I can't be the only one who doesn't want to walk out of a pho restaurant literally holding their belly after every bowl of pho. If you also enjoy pho for its warming and flavourful qualities, but don't want the guilt of wasting so much food by not being able to finish it, this small bowl's for you.
Secondly, if you're lazy or in a hurry, their wall to wall corner windows allow you to check out how many free tables (ideally, not too many, but not too few) there are and whether there is a line up without skipping a beat. The large dining area and differently sized tables accommodates everyone from solo diners to families and allows lots of buffer space if you come in earlier.
Last and strangely, one of the main reasons why I am ultimately convinced to go to Pho Phoenix so often is because they also serve Chinese food. They are the only option for congee in the immediate vicinity and have decent fried noodles. Apparently. I have grown skeptical once I arrive and defaulted with pho or bun every time, so I don't actually know.
The service can be slow when the place is packed, but it's never been horrible. Besides, the food is always worth the wait, if any. Television screens and people watching will keep you plenty occupied if you don't bring company or reading material.
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