So, and so, and so. I've been back! And, as I'd promised to myself, I had to try the actual pho. In some ways this was a minor regret, especially getting FOMO and Food Envy all over the shop at my dining companion's dishes, but I had determined to try the pho, and that's what I got.
The experience really is fast food, but this would be one of the few instances where I don't see it as a bad thing. For the fast food experience, you get to eat within about 5-10 minutes of ordering (naturally) and the prices are much lower. Does that mean quality is skimped on? Not here, apparently.
After having tried the squid at the Yelp event, I had to have another round. And, piglet as I am, I had a whole tray to myself. It was as delectable and delicious as the first time, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Alongside this I had the garlic beef pho (I've already forgotten the proper name) and a Vietnamese coffee to accompany. The bowl is rather huge, given it's only six quid, and pretty much packed with flat noodles.
It's very aromatic, and you get a tray of herbs and bean sprouts to add in yourself (did I mention the other day I like interactive food?!) which is a lovely touch. My only two slight niggles would be that there wasn't a huge amount of beef in the dish, and it was perhaps a touch over cooked for my liking. But then, beef in a broth is a tricky mouth pleaser if you like things a certain way. It was just a little chewy for me, although tasted very nice.
The coffee, I thought, was going to be disappointing. For a start, it was half a small cup, which was very little for over two quid. I stirred in the condensed milk anyhow, and dived in for a sip. Nectar. It was absolutely delicious. I don't know what coffee, or what brand of condensed milk they use, but this was the stuff - an amazing way to round off a good meal, especially as it's basically dessert and coffee in one. (Sweet as anything, but the perfect digestif.) So, I'll certainly pay for that again.
All in all, I'm a real fan. You can eat for just six quid, which I understand is *just* over what you might spend in a McDonalds and the like, but get nothing but healthy, tasty, fresh, authentic food. The pho will be a fantastic warmer come the colder months, especially when you're feeling a little cold-y, and the noodles are very much next on my hit list. Definitely come here and give it a go - if for nothing else, but that it's Leeds' only Vietnamese place! read more