We’ve tried so many pho places in Washington State, but this place definitely ranks top two on our list.
Food: We tried their beef and brisket pho, the broth was flavorful but not too overwhelming, umami but not too salty, and fragrant but not over spiced. The beef and brisket slices were thick cut and fresh, but still thin/small enough that it’s melt in your mouth tender (they were also very generous with their meat portions in the pho). It was also a great mix of fatty and lean meat, giving the pho the extra kick of flavor it needs. They also gave us a big stem of basil, which was fresh and fragrant. The shrimp fresh spring roll was the best I’ve tried, ever. The rice paper wrap was the perfect texture, chewy but not too tough. The shrimp tasted very fresh, and it was packed with flavor and fresh vegetables. The dipping sauce was perfect, great flavors and textures.
Service: the staff were incredibly nice, and the service was great. We tipped more than 20% because we had such a comfortable and enjoyable time there.
Vibes/environment/atmosphere: the interior design of the restaurant was very pleasant. It was clean, comfortable, and simplistic yet fancy. I would 100% host a family dinner or gathering with friends, or even host a professional dinner party. I could see that the owners put in a lot of time to clean, maintain, and design their interior. The chairs were also comfy and the restaurant is very accessible for guests needing wheelchair access.
Parking: free parking right outside the restaurant, super convenient.
Overall, we loved this place. Definitely one of the best pho restaurants in the Seattle area, and we are definitely coming back to try their other dishes. Their hot bowl of pho ($16) and shrimp spring rolls ($6) are so comforting and satisfying, and so well-priced for the incredibly generous portion-size, I would have it any time of the year (my partner and I shared one pho and one order of shrimp rolls and left very happy,...
Read more4.9 stars pho restaurant in Seattle? At first, I thought it was just a hype. It took me a long time to actually visit and try it myself to see if it's worth the stars. Long story short, I agree with the rest of the reviews.
Magnolia pho, I'd say, is a PNW variant of the classic southern style pho. It's definitely more rich and spicy than some of the popular pho chains in the area. What Magnolia does exceptionally well is the broth. Whereas PNW pho restaurants reserve or even toss away nuoc beo (fatty broth), Magnolia serves their bowls with ample amounts of nuoc beo, so each bite and slurp carries this amazing flavor that is as authentic as it gets. I often find myself having to ask nuoc beo on the side at many PNW pho restaurants, and Magnolia is one of the few restaurants where I didn't have to do that. One can easily tell that their broth doesn't use a premix soup base for their broth - if they do, Im confident they keep it to a minimal.
I got the Monster pho, which was basically a combination pho with beef short rib. Short rib was tender, and the meat came off the bone with ease. All this for around 20 dollars left me full and happy, and I felt that every dollar spent was worth it. Pho of this quality could easily set you back 25-30 dollars elsewhere in the city, so I thought it was a bargain. Staff are incredibly nice and considerate, checking in on you frequently, which you dont see a whole lot in other pho restaurants. I didn't understand why Magnolia would have "review us and receive XYZ" stickers on every table as I found that they don't need to solicit reviews and stars with the high quality food and services they offer. Don't let those stickers fool you. The food speaks for itself.
Limited parking spots are a downside, but perhaps it's an area where foot traffic makes more sense. Will return yo try bun bo hue. I am confident to say Magnolia pho is...
Read moreMagnolia PHO is a gem of a Vietnamese restaurant that consistently delivers an outstanding dining experience. Here's what makes this place special:
Food Quality The food at Magnolia PHO is simply amazing. Their pho stands out as one of the best I've ever had. The broth is incredibly flavorful without being overly salty, striking the perfect balance. Each bowl is a testament to their dedication to authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The fresh ingredients and the harmonious blend of spices make every bite a delight. Beyond the pho, their menu offers a variety of traditional dishes that are equally impressive, from fresh spring rolls to savory banh mi sandwiches.
Staff and Service The staff at Magnolia PHO are exceptionally friendly and welcoming. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with warm smiles and prompt service. They are attentive and eager to ensure that every aspect of your dining experience is perfect. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you are treated with the same level of care and hospitality.
Amenities One of the added bonuses of dining at Magnolia PHO is the free parking. In a city where finding parking can often be a challenge, this convenience cannot be overstated. It makes the whole dining experience even more enjoyable and stress-free.
Overall Experience Magnolia PHO is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination for those who appreciate high-quality Vietnamese cuisine served in a friendly and welcoming environment. The excellent pho, combined with the amazing food, friendly staff, and convenient free parking, makes it a top choice for anyone craving a taste of Vietnam.
In summary, if you're looking for a Vietnamese restaurant that offers amazing food, excellent service, and convenient amenities, Magnolia PHO should be at the top of your list. Highly...
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