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| - So originally we intended to go to Little Saigon which is in the plaza directly north of this one, but there was a sign on the door that said the restaurant is on vacation. Not renovation, vacation. I guess, it worked to hard over the years and needed a break? So we ended up here at Pho Tai Bac, Little Saigon's competition. We arrived around 18:30. The place was not full, and we were seated immediately. By 19:00, place was packed and line was out the door.
The place is family owned and operated (by Chinese Vietnamese). The staff speaks many languages as I was able to discern Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Teo Chew, and English. Credit cards are not accepted so make sure you bring cash.
The decor is typical of Pho places, plastic (formica laminated) tables and chairs. Sauces and utensils lay in containers and are stationed right at your table for self service.
The service was good and typical of Asian restaurants: you call them if you need something. They only come to clear empty dishes, otherwise they leave you alone. The staff remained friendly, thanking you for your business and greeting you adieu.
On the menu for today is the staples: Pho, Com, Bun, Cha Gio, and a Sour Sop Shake.
#42. Pho Dac Biet (Dac Biet means "special", which basically means it has everything in it). The broth is the star here and performed decently. It was slightly on the salty side, but carried pho flavour. Star anise was also noticeable. Very good meat to pho to broth ratio with the large bowl as every spoonful had all three elements. 4 stars.
#74. Bun Bo/Thit/Ga Nuong (Vermicelli with Beef/Pork/Chicken). This dish is all about the fish sauce. Depending on the region, the sauce will differ in taste. Here, it was pretty balanced. No overpowering fishiness and not too sweet. 3 stars. The meats carried good flavours, but were a little light on the grilling. 3,5 stars.
#127. Com. Tam Thap Cam (Pork chop and chicken). Same as the bun, meats well flavoured, but light on the grilling. 3,5 stars. The rice was mushy (too much water?), and they skimped in the onion oil. 1 star. The vegetables were huge, and had all the right ones, no skimping on ingredients here. 4 stars. Overall 3 stars.
#1. Cha Gio (Spring Rolls). They used a Chinese spring roll wrap... wrong! The ingredients were ok. 2 stars. The fish sauce was the same as the other dishes. 3 stars. Again did not skimp on accompaniments, carrots, radish, lettuce and noodles. All were fresh. 5 stars. Overall 3 stars.
#158. Soursop shake. This was not good. To much ice. Too little soursop. 1 star.
Like many places they have high points and low points. I'd return for some dishes but would stay away from others. 3 stars overall.
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Pho flavours are highly subjective and expectations depend greatly on which region you're from (if Vietnam is your motherland). If Vietnam is not your motherland, here's a really quick summary of what you should expect in terms of flavour for each major region. Decide on the one you like, and search for your Pho-vourite place. Know what you're eating before you judge...
North (Hanoi). Simple dishes often influenced by tradition. Strict pairings of ingredients and the cooler climate makes stewing a popular method of cooking. Black Pepper tends to replace most spices. Light, yet balanced flavours make up all the complexity. Lots of Chinese influence due to geographical proximity to China. Signature dishes include: Pho, Bun rieu, Bun cha, banh cun.
Central (Hue & Hoi An). Former Imperial Capital. More spices are used and greater care is taken with regards to presentation. Due to heritage, meals tend to be more luxurious with multiple course meals. Food is spicier than the North and there is less Chinese influence. Hoi An is unique in that it where North meets Central, often fusing the two cuisines. Signature dishes include: Com hen, Cao Lau, Banh Mi.
South (Saigon). Warmer climate = higher harvest yields, so liberality is often displayed with southern dishes. Flavours are bolder and more vibrant with the use of fresh herbs. They also tend to favor the sweet side through the use of coconut milk. French influence in some of the cuisine due to occupancy during the war. Signature dishes include: Banh Khoai, Bánh xèo, Goi Cuon.
If you would like to experience more, come dine-with-me.yelp.com I'd love to have your company... Bon Appétit!
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