Hellen's Family — Restaurant in El Centro

Over all. Would go again. I Loved it. Went with a semi large group (7), mostly adults, my grandparents and a child. There was a bit of a miscommunication but the gentleman handled it with ease and made up by providing a complimentary watermelon that was sweet and juicy, also unexpected. I enjoyed the level of customer service, not common here.

I will add they moved from a restaurant setting in Brawley and updated their menu. Honestly, good move. I believe the flavor improved, big time. The broth tasted like broth and it actually hugged my insides, like the pho should and even though it’s not as heavily seasoned as most pho I’ve encountered, it’s a little gem that scratches that itch. The establishment is currently only run by two people and the mom does the cooking, from what I understood. Because of that reason please be aware that our meal did not come out all at once. Appetizers didn’t come out first and the room we were in, was accommodating but still small. The time it took for everyone to get their meal was a bit long but we are a loud and entertaining bunch so we didn’t notice much but that’s my opinion. The tamarind candies that came with our receipt were also so tasty, I Highly recommend a try. Reasonably priced and it’s located in a residential area so it feels homey 💜

Sil: vermicelli bowl + Thai tea(bowl big portion not so spicy and sriracha was amazing) Bro: banh mi braised pork + Vietnamese coffee( he also ate half a spring roll an empanada, plus egg rolls) Nan: veggie spring rolls + chicken pho Pops: jasmine rice + egg rolls + pork empanada + lemonade Kid: rice w/braised pork belly Me: had a bit of what everyone got + chicken empanada and egg rolls Hub: beef pho + egg rolls and lemonade

No pictures due to everyone immediately...

It’s delicious! I normally buy this once a week to treat myself, and my family, and let me tell you, the food is incredible! I high recommend to just trying everything. I’m in love with the pho beef and I normally ask for extra beef and make sure to add all of the toppings that they provide: bean sprouts, mint, cilantro, lime, everything. I also add some chili garlic sauce, like the “Huy Fong Chili Sauce Vietnam Garlic.” I also adore the Banh Mi BBQ Pork and the Banh Mi BBQ Pork Char Sui! Order a side of pho broth so you can dip the sandwich before you take a bite. It really elevates the flavor! Also the egg rolls are addicting. You think you’re going to only want one or two but no. It’s more like 4 per person, lol. I have included some...

My fiance and I tried the pho beef and the pho beef and meatball combo and will say that it is definitely the best Pho in the Imperial Valley. Not the best Pho we've had, but it is pretty good nonetheless. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful and loved our experience. We tried their Iced Tea with monk fruit sweetener and it was quite tasty, but I can see how some people wouldn't enjoy it. It is definitely not for everyone, but we REALLY enjoyed it. Overall, if you want some good pho in the valley, this is the best place to go if you don't want to drive out...