Michelin-guide Pho in Richmond Hill!

 

Pho Tai Nam @Pho Le

The fam, being noodle soup-lovers, was so excited to discover that Pho Le’s first location outside of Ho Chi Minh was in Richmond Hill! This Vietnamese chain established in the 70’s earned the Bib Gourmand recognition in the 2023 and 2024 Michelin Guide Ho Chi Minh City. While not a star, we have had great experiences with the Michelin-guide restaurants we've tried before! And, while the recognition is for the Vietnam location, the hope is that the recipe is executed well for the other branches. Indeed, Pho Le's recognition was well-deserved with meals that were good value for money!

The wait list is long and to line up outside during winter (as there is not much space inside to wait) is enough reason to make us find something else. However, on a couple of occasions, we managed to get seats and enjoy their yummy offerings.

Their appetizer platter had something for everyone—fried spring rolls, fresh rolls, wonton, chicken wings and papaya/mango salad! I especially love the fresh rolls, packed with good sized shrimp (not super thinly-sliced just to give an illusion of the shrimp in the rolls like other places!).

Fresh rolls @Pho Le

I tried their signature Pho, but while they recommend Pho Dac Biet (with rare beef, brisket, tendon and beef balls), I prefer the Pho Tai (which is just rare beef). The broth was superb and the noodles were nicely chewy. They served great quality Pho that really hits the spot. The girls prefer their Pho with beef balls and brisket.

Pho Tai Nam @Pho Le

At another occasion, I tried their Original Laksa, and I think I will be having this for my next visit again. I know, I know, it is not really Vietnamese (they also serve Tom Yum, too) but I really enjoy Laksa. The Laksa was so flavourful with the right hint of sweet and spicy. The broth was rich and hearty and the spices burst with flavour in my mouth! The original came with shrimp, fish cake, fish ball and tofu. Hubby got the Dac Biet which included rare beef, brisket, tendon and beef balls. Same broth, just different protein. The noodles were good quality and perfectly cooked and I enjoyed the seafood it came with. Hubby also enjoyed his Laksa and also decided he will order this again when we come back.

Original Laksa @Pho Le

They also offer other items including vermicelli soup and Hue-style soup (spicy, from a different Vietnamese region-- Ok maybe I will try the Hue-style next time). They even have more expensive items such as bone marrow and beef rib soup.  Grandma had the vermicelli rice noodle bowl with grilled chicken but was not too happy about it, but she enjoyed the Fried Spring Rolls for sure! We will also try their fancy drink offerings next time!

Vermicelli with Grilled Chicken @Pho Le

Service was faster during the weekday and they need more staff during the weekends. Nonetheless, the wait was not too bad and the delicious noodle soup was worth the wait. Pho Le has been declared our fam’s new go-to Vietnamese place!