It was a typical evening in Las Piñas City, Metro Manila, but the heavens had opened up with a prolonged downpour, courtesy of a passing typhoon. The kind of rain that makes you want to cozy up indoors with something warm and comforting. With dinner plans up in the air, we found ourselves seeking refuge and sustenance, ultimately deciding on Pho Hoa ATC. Tucked away in a low-key spot near the cinema area of Alabang Town Center, it offered a quiet escape from the inclement weather outside.
The ambiance of Pho Hoa ATC is unassuming, a calm haven that doesn't scream for attention but rather invites you in with its subtle charm. As we settled into our seats, the promise of a warm, Vietnamese meal seemed like the perfect antidote to the chilly, wet evening.
Our culinary journey began with the Pomelo and Shrimp Salad. It was the first to arrive, a vibrant medley of colors that immediately piqued our interest. The initial bite was a delightful revelation – a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory. The pomelo offered a burst of refreshing citrus, perfectly complemented by the plump, succulent shrimp. What truly tied it all together was the savory fish sauce dressing, which added a depth of flavor that was both exciting and incredibly satisfying. It was a fantastic start, awakening our palates for what was to come.
Next, the Fresh Rice Paper Roll with Peanut Sauce made its appearance. My wife, a connoisseur of lighter, healthier options, immediately gravitated towards these. And for good reason. The translucent rice paper delicately encased a medley of fresh vegetables and vermicelli, creating a roll that was as light as it was invigorating. Dipped into the accompanying peanut sauce, each bite was a delicate balance of textures and subtle flavors. It was a testament to the beauty of simplicity, a truly refreshing and wholesome choice.
Then came the star for any meat lover: the Vietnamese Grilled Pork Brochette. If you appreciate a robust, carnivorous delight, this dish is an absolute must-try. The grilled pork skewers were incredibly savory, each piece bursting with a smoky, charred flavor that spoke of meticulous grilling. The marinade had seeped deep into the meat, rendering it incredibly tender and juicy. The flavors were bold and assertive, leaving a lingering, satisfying taste that made me declare, almost immediately, that I would absolutely order it again. It was a definite highlight for those who crave a flavorful and hearty main course.
Finally, the grand finale: the Pho Brisket Soup. As the steaming bowl was placed before me, the aromatic scent of star anise, cinnamon, and beef broth enveloped us. This was exactly what the doctor ordered on a cold, rainy night. The broth itself was a work of art – rich, clear, and profoundly comforting. It had that magical quality of being both deeply flavorful and incredibly soothing, almost medicinal in its warmth. The tender slices of brisket were melt-in-your-mouth soft, and the accompanying rice noodles, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts added layers of texture and freshness. Each spoonful was like a warm embrace, a culinary balm that chased away the last vestiges of the typhoon's chill. It truly felt like the ultimate comfort food, the kind you long for when you're feeling under the weather or simply seeking solace from a stormy world.
Our dinner at Pho Hoa ATC was more than just a meal; it was a delightful culinary escape. From the refreshing salad to the comforting pho, each dish played its part in creating a memorable dining experience. The low-key atmosphere, coupled with the delicious and thoughtfully prepared food, made it the perfect refuge from the storm and a place we'd happily revisit,...
Read moreA regular here. This is my favorite spot to dine in since it's nearest place to where I live. First time trying this was on cubao gateway and was really shookt how big their servings were for a regular bowl. When I tried Pho Hoa's Pho in ATC I was pretty disappointed since the size of the bowl is smaller compared to the one I had in Gateway.
There's really something about the distinct taste of Pho that kept me coming back that's why whenever I get the chance, I dine with large bowl of Pho in this place. Tried their mango sticky rice with ice cream but it's too sweet for my taste, I think I'd like to have an authentic one with coconut milk instead. The veggie wrap tastes so good! My girlfriend and I enjoyed...
Read moreTried the Bún Thịt Nướng Chả Giò at Pho Hoa—close to the original but no cigar. The flavors were there, but it lacked that extra punch of authenticity. Service was snappy, which was a big plus, and the ambience was decent—definitely a step up from the chaotic streets of Saigon. Overall, a solid 4-star experience—good, but not...
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