NO NAME PHO — Restaurant in Portland

Okay here’s an in depth review. I walk in front of the restaurant. It’s so beautifully decorated with plants and looks very charming and welcoming on the exterior. I walk in. My nose is hit with the delicious aroma of comforting Vietnamese food. “Hello customer!” Says the wonderful girl at the ordering station. “What are you looking to eat on this magnificent day my friend?” I tell her I’m not sure, she proceeds to show me their menu with all the delicious foods. I cant even decide because I want them all!!! After thinking for a bit I decide on the Vietnamese pho. And one of their hand crafted drinks. The kind young employee guides me to my seat. I look around at all the beautiful decorations— it feels like I’m transported straight to Vietnam. I help myself to a refreshing free cup of lemon water. About ten minutes after ordering my meal comes. Not only did I receive a very generous portion of pho, it came with lots of sides to pick from, and even a hand cut lime. I devour the pho. The beautful and kind employee takes my dirty dishes and gives me a warm smile. As I’m leaving the whole crew of cooks and employees say “Goodbye my friend! We are so happy we could nourish your soul and stomach!” I almost have tears in my eyes. No name pho felt like my own home. The food was affordable and made me feel comforted and safe. And the workers made me feel like royalty....

I heartily recommend No Name Pho! Amidst a rainy hailstorm, I was able to escape the weather and slip into No Name Pho for a respite on a chilly Spring day. It was a bit disconcerting having to place my order at the front of the restaurant (just inside the front door), but was fine. Having ordered my Pho Ga and a cup of hot tea, I was given my choice of tables. The server was gracious and pleasant. Upon receiving my order, I was first impressed by the taste of the savory Chicken Broth. It was excellently seasoned and had nice, chunky pieces of chicken among the noodles. I did receive the customary sides dish of fresh basil, bean sprouts, two slices of jalapeño pepper, and a wedge of fresh lime. I added everything to my Pho (except the slices of pepper [no thanks!]). Overall, everything thing was great! The portion was so adequate that I was able to bring half of it home for lunch the next day. This was my first visit to No Name Pho, but it will not be my last. I’m pleased that I now have a favorite Pho restaurant in my Hawthorne/Buckman/Sunnyside neighborhood. I no longer have to venture to NE Portland for a nice bowl of Pho. Alas, their menu does not include Banh Xeo, but I will...

My boyfriend and I went here for the first time to get pho, and were surprised by how wonderful the broth was. We are quite the pho connoisseurs, it is both our favorite food. After trying it today, it has earned a new spot as one of our go-to restaurants for pho. The broth is just amazing, and serving size was not bad at all for the price, it got me nice and full at about $15/bowl which is normal for pho. We will definitely be back for more!

With that said, the reason I chose 4 stars (I wish i could give 4.5) instead of 5 is because the way they have payment set up. You have to pay and choose your food before you even sit down. I don't keep cash on me so this meant I had to pay tip before I could judge service, which I don't like. I appreciated the service I received a lot, I would have tipped MORE if I had gotten to pay after! It does prevent dine and dashers so I get it, but it is not ideal at all for a genuine customer.

All in all, the pho is top tier, the set up/service is a little odd but worth it. We would definitely recommend it to anyone, and will be coming...