for years, people raved about this place, but i never went. when i finally did, i was unimpressed. it was kind of bland and nothing special. i don't know what the hype is about. it seems the menu is hit-or-miss, but mostly not great, if you ask me
Okay, don't tie my noose yet. I've lived in Waco for six years, and have eaten here at least once a year in hopes that a) it gets better b) it was having an off day last time or c) my palate has changed. It never does...The sauces taste manufactured, almost like you could find the same in a microwaveable dinner. It's normally slow on top of that.
But I will give it to you, the Pho soup is top notch. Otherwise, not impressed.
This little pink gem, tucked behind a eucalyptus tree is a must visit every-time I come to town! Vietnamese family owned and operated. Owner/operator/executive chefs are seemingly ever-present and always make us feel like a neighbor of family member just dropping in for a bite. I have had half the menu (working on trying it all) and all was great.
The Stuffed mushrooms are an exception to the excellent rating - so far they are the only thing I would not order again.
Keep in mind this is Americanized Vietnamese so don't try to compare it to "authentic". In a larger metropolis you can get closer to authentic, but those kinds of places can survive with that kind of population. Waco is just not big enough to support any "foreign authentic".
The tea is good.
You can't go wrong with a chicken curry clay pot!
Their pho' has just the right spices to soothe your hunger and soul. Note - the cup and bowl are totally different (same broth but bowl/pot has all the goodies.)
I eat the lemongrass chicken to clear my head during cold season!
Because it is made fresh daily, you may experience some slight variations ie. saltiness, tightness of rolls, thickness of sauces etc...
I take it as part of the charm!
The place is charming and cozy. Choice of traditional table seating or low table pillow seating.
I struggled to not give it an excellent rating. I didn't because of the Americanization of the food, and some of the inconsistencies.
For me, this is the kind of place you go to for good, friendly, casual food with a Vietnamese flair. Then again, maybe it is more on the "authentic" side because of the casualness of the food and environment.
