It seems like the current trend in OC is northern style pho. Pho Flavor offer both northern and southern pho. Also, choice of wide or regular size vermicelli noodles.
They took over the former Pho Bros and kept the same decor and furniture. The menu is kept simple and all they serve is pho in these Instagramable three layer stackable bowls. Pho soup bowl as the bottom, herbs (bean sprouts, culantro, jalapeño) as the middle and the sriracha + hoisin sauce as the top. With a side of basil in a water vase.
We ordered northern style stir fry meats with wide noodles and southern style pho with regular size noodles.
Here was the chance to decipher the difference between the broth from both regions. They do give you a description of both but my taste buds and experience says otherwise. To me, northern style broth is more beefy and bolder. I’m not a fan of the wide noodles because it becomes too starchy the broth soaks it all up making me really full after a few bites. I’m not a science person but I feel like the molecules in the broth for northern style does not easily seep through making it the perfect combo. The garlic vinegar slices are optional here so you must ask for it.
3 stars for flavor and taste. It’s just average. IMO, other competitors have perfected their broth over Pho Flavor. However, the portions were way more generous than other places.
I would have preferred condiments on the table, especially the pickled garlic vinegar. They seem to keep the decor simple, modern, and clean with these gimmicky bowls.
4 stars for service. Overall,...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Pho Flavor, a relatively new pho restaurant that has managed to captivate my taste buds with its exceptional flavors and impeccable service. From the moment I stepped in, I knew I was in for an extraordinary culinary adventure.
Let's begin with the star of the show: the pho. The fragrant aroma of the simmering broth filled the air, whetting my appetite. I opted for their classic beef pho, and it was an absolute revelation. The broth was rich, yet balanced, boasting a depth of flavors that can only be achieved through careful attention to detail and quality ingredients. Every spoonful was a symphony of taste, combining the comforting warmth of the broth with tender slices of beef, perfectly cooked rice noodles, and an assortment of fresh herbs and bean sprouts. Each ingredient contributed to a harmonious medley of flavors, leaving me craving for more with every bite.
However, it's not just the remarkable flavors that set Pho Flavor apart. The service, led by the exceptional Daniel, was a true highlight of my dining experience. His friendly demeanor and warm hospitality created an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, making me feel like a valued guest.
The ambiance of the restaurant itself was modern yet charming, with its tasteful decor and cozy seating.
In summary, Pho Flavor will be my go-to! Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll likely find yourself planning your next visit even before leaving...
Read moreWe arrived on Saturday evening at 10:35 pm before closing. We sat patiently waiting for our order to be taken. My sister and friend decided to share the pork rib pho, while I asked for chicken pho. The waiter told me they only had beef, so I agreed to the beef pho. The waiter already seemed confused, so I made sure to repeat my beef pho order clearly.
After about 15 minutes, he brought out the “pork ribs,” which turned out to be just 3 small pork ribs with hardly any soup in it and no noodles. We looked at each other in confusion, “ Is this all?” Lol We were shocked, since we assumed “pho” automatically came with noodles. When we asked, he just nodded and said it didn’t.
When I asked about my beef pho, I realized he had never placed my order at all, even though I had repeated it. He then called someone from the kitchen who was extremely rude, claiming the waiter had explained that the ribs were only a side dish and didn’t include noodles yet he wasn’t even the one who took our order. He also told us the kitchen was closed and the soup was already poured out, so they couldn’t make anything else.
This was beyond disrespectful. We arrived before closing, waited patiently, and were met with confusion, poor communication, and rudeness. They clearly don’t know how to take proper orders or treat paying customers.
Never again. There are plenty of other pho spots that actually respect their guests, go...
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