Chicago's Best Pho Isn’t in Vietnam Town!? 🤔

The first pho I tried when I moved to Evanston was from this spot — so casual and regular that I almost overlooked it. But after trying all the popular spots like Pho 888, Pho 777, and Saigon Pho around Chicago… none compare to my neighborhood favorite, the oddly named Pho Nam Lua! 🍜 The broth here is richer and more aromatic, the beef is incredibly flavorful, and I love how their tripe and oxtail are braised until tender — so easy to eat! You can even add a special menu item: giant beef bone (huge and impressive, though I often forget to snap a pic since I come here so often 😅). 🍝 Their stir-fried rice noodles are a must-try — honestly, sometimes I crave them more than the pho! Wok-kissed and full of that classic Cantonese-style flavor (not Thai-style). Huge portion loaded with veggies — easily enough for two meals. 🍲 They also serve a lamb hot pot (like the one on the menu — similar to braised lamb but with a hint of lemongrass, plus taro chunks! Comes with a big plate of greens for dipping — easily feeds 3–4 people (wish I had a photo to share 😩). After years of tasting around, I now insist: Pho Nam Lua deserves to be on every “best pho in Chicago” list! 🏆 #ChicagoEats #PhoLover #VietnameseFood #HiddenGem #EvanstonEats #ComfortFood