I've come to China Town on a Friday morning because what I really want after being here one month is noodles. A hot brothy soup. As it goes, I can't really understand the menus, I'm not sure what I want and I don't know how to order! So I put it on hold and decide to patter through the neighbourhood to work up some confidence.
What I eventually settle on is Pho Pasteur "The Best Noodle Soup in Town". WOW Really!? I grab a chair at table number five and pull out a menu and decide on option 1, Beef Rice Noodle breaking the vegetarian diet I've been on for the past 3 months (but somehow its okay, right?).Before my bowl comes, I am offered complementary tea which I accept.
I have such lovely memories sitting down to eat Pho. Living in Chicago we had a lot of access to Vietnamese food. Large groups of us would go on a chilly day, splitting a bottle of wine, laughing and being loud. The restaurants were huge, with so many people crammed together. It is a stark contrast as I sit here alone, getting a little homesick that I'm not sharing with a friend......Until the bowl comes :)
Oh hot noodle beef soup, I love you! The broth is deep and rich with a sweet and salty, perfect Umami flavor. The noodles are hand cut and I pile it high with lime, bean sprouts, and Sriracha. Thank you I say silently to Pho Pasteur, as I slurp up the piping hot goodness stopping once or twice to wipe my mouth. If you are in the area, Pho Pasteur is located at 709 George Street in Haymarket, it will cost you about $11 for a bowl and an extra $2 if you decide to split. There are a number of Vietnamese items on the menu included fried chicken, vermicelli salads, teas and tofu. Also, leave those cards at home because this is a cash only establishment. Lastly, know that this isn't fine dining. It is quick, cheap and oh so delicious! read more