4.5 because the food is so good. Lacking a half star because the service isn't that great (but you don't go for that) and I've noticed the lemongrass chicken can vary in size between visits. The chicken pho is always top notch. I ask for shrimp spring rolls without the pork and I always get what I want with no issues.
Here's a little guide to Pho Thanh:
- There's also parking in the back.
- You can seat yourself or wait until you catch the eye of someone working there and they'll air traffic controller style point/wave you to a table.
- There are always people eating who work there. Don't be surprised if one of them gets up to take your order before going back to their meal.
- Don't expect staff to stand around and chit chat with you. It's probably not going to happen. They act like they're there to feed you and clean up after you and that's it. I should have warned my grandmother and mother to not expect the warm fuzzies when we came here for a family dinner.
- Feel free to ask questions or ask for something you need. They are helpful.
- DO NOT play with the chopsticks. Seriously. Don't. Would you go somewhere else and play with the silverware? If the answer is yes you need to go back to the cave you came from and learn some manners. The exception to this is if you're in Denny's at 3am. We know you aren't sober. Just don't do anything to get arrested. But really, the table is not your imaginary drum set. You are not a walrus. If you want to play "swords" with chopsticks I can help you with that and stab you with one. Parents, please teach your children respect for other cultures, even if this isn't fine dining.
- Take food home with you. By the counter there's a rack with containers. Grab what you need. Yes, I know it's customary to eat the noodles right away, but whatever. I'd rather people stop wasting food. It tastes just as good when you're hungry again in a few hours. Their pho is huge. Don't stuff yourself. Get two meals by taking half home.
- You pay at the counter. Tell them your table number. If you decide to move tables just make sure you're paying the right ticket.
- Never been in an Asian market? There's one right next door. Go get some Pocky. It's only a dollar.