I go to Calgary once or twice a year from Edmonton - usually for the tattoo convention.
As an avid pho lover - I always try to check out the local vietnamese soup joints.
Lotus is walking distance from the BMO center where the convention is held so my fellow tattoo artist friends or Calgary pals find it convenient to pop in to when we get a spare minute.
The room is typically decorated with traditional nicknacks and artwork.
It's overal clean and tidy looking.
The service, like most vietnamese places I've visited is efficient yet unfriendly.
I always order the same thing :P
-Vietnamese iced coffee. at Lotus, it's served pre-made over crushed ice, which I don't prefer over having the carafe brought to the table and then poured over ice cubes.
Lotus serves their iced coffee with a little plastic spoon and a wacky straw...
-The steak skewers. I think they were a little on the pricey side for two skewers, but I order them EVERY TIME. You cannot pass them up. They are big, meaty skewers with tender seasoned and marinated beef served with a spicy dip sauce. SO GOOD!
-As always, I ordered the House Special soup in a large. Well priced for the size. This is THE biggest bowl of pho I've ever had. A little bit too much noodles, but otherwise tasty. The broth is "safe", not too robust or beefy. I prefer the taste to be bolder.
I also found the noodles to be a bit softer/soggier than I like.
The next times I visited this week, I ordered the regular bowl. It's still a very generous portion of soup and great value.
Lotus is always a safe bet on a Calgary trip for me based on it's convenient location and consistent service and quality of food.
Try it out - Don't pass up the beef skewers.