Been here twice so far. The first time with my wife would have been the worst experience ever if not for the amazing staff. There was a huge group or 20 or so people spread over 3 it 4 tables so our line was exceptionally long despite being the third group in line. We were constantly checked up on while in line and when we were finally seated the server misheard a small part the order (satay vs original broth). With that said we got the other broth we were eyeing so it still worked out. But they were very quick to offer to remake it, we said it was fine. Even after being very pleased with the original broth they were quick to comp the entire dish. Though we would have been glad to pay. The Saigonese iced coffee was so good we ended up ordering another one each to go. We left very pleased and quite full. By the way the 'build your isn't style of menu is genious. I hate when the exact combo of pho I want is not on the menu and I hace to make do with more or less than what I want.
The second time around I brought some friends over and its now become their new pho restaurant. Even though only one of them had pho. This experience went a lot smoother and was still amazing. Again the coffee was one of my highlights.
A couple of things to note. At this time they are still pretty new so they can only take debit or cash at the time of this review but apparently are working on the credit thing. Also when a line forms get inside and ask for a number. They'll get you seated eventually bit it looks like they are only getting more popular. Everything is made in house apparently and they are proud of it and it shows. There is no msg in the food (though I don't know about the condiments). The fresh noodles are softer than you may be used to but they taste great. It really depends on if you're a texture person vs a flavour person. Both styles were good for me but I think I prefer the fresh myself. Lastly go early. If there is a line it really is...
Read moreLocated in the Shawarma Stop plaza across from FMP on the Burger King side. There's not that much parking but usually the lot isn't too packed.
My friends and I stopped by on a saturday evening after a session of badminton. We JUST managed to dodge the dinner rush as we arrived at around 6:30 and got a table for 6 with no reservation. The minute we all got seated there was a line packed out the door and the yelp waitlist updated in real time to reflect a 20-40 min wait phew.
The original pho was pretty good according to my friends. I did try some of their broth. It was nice! My personal fave place for pho is still Pho Anh Vu on Hwy 7. That place is untouchable right now imo because of their great taste and HUGE portion sizes.
I ordered the pho tai sa te (satay broth) while the friend next to me ordered pho tai ca ri (curry broth). They both tasted good but the ca ri broth tasted great! It was more complex and layered than the satay broth. Next time I'm back, my go-to will definitely be the curry broth.
None of us tried the vermicelli bowls so I can't comment on that.
At the end of the meal, the server notified us that they couldn't split the bill but they gave us a 5% cash discount which was appreciated (usually if you pay in cash you get 10% off but it's fine).
Service itself was pretty good. The servers were all friendly and prompt. I do wish they kept the tiny sauce dishes at the tables for easy access though (you have to ask the server for a specified number).
One thing that's special about this place is they also let you build your own bowl of noodles (same concept as Deer Garden) which is cool for a viet place.
This is a solid spot for Viet eats! I think they are definitely on the pricier side for the portions they give (the L and XL sizes should be bigger in my honest opinion) so Pho Anh Vu will still be my go-to viet spot in the Richmond...
Read moreOne of the best pho restaurants in Markham. I'm so glad they reopened after more than a year being closed.
Started off by using Yelp waitlist for a table for 2. Within the estimated time of 30-42 mins, I got a call that my table is ready. I got there and wasn't really told what to do and wasn't given any menus. So I just scanned the QR code and looked at the menu. After asking a server to take an order, she tells me, you just scan and order... so I'm like oh ok.
I ordered the wrap and special pho and the viet rice with lemongrass pork chop and beef ribs. My boyfriends pho ended up coming the fastest before our appetizer came (roll). He ended up eating for 15mins before the roll came and then another 10mins wait until my rice came. It's quite unacceptable, as I had to sit there watching my bf eat and how his came before the appetizer.
Upon waiting for the roll and my rice , we asked the server politely to check on our appetizer and see if it's going to come soon. The servers reply was "kitchen is making it " and left , well yes I know the kitchen is making it but, I would've appreciated if she went to the kitchen and ask if it would be ready within a few minutes and came back and gave me an update. The table next to us was also frustrated with waiting for their meals, and asked the server and she once again repeated the same thing she said to my bf and I.
Overall, the food quality is still the same and good. However the service needs to speed up and provide a better explanation rather than "kitchen is making it" and leave it at that without checking with...
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