Pho Ha Philadelphia

Located in a Vietnamese strip mall, on South Philly's Washington Street, Pho Ha is a thoroughly authentic and extremely inexpensive spot. Despite a simple interior, consistently delicious broth and impossibly quick service combine to form my favorite pho restaurant in Philadelphia.

A large assortment of pho combinations, spring and summer rolls, vermicelli noodle bowls, Bun Bo Hue (a lemon grass beef soup), and traditional beverages provide plenty of Vietnamese flavors to choose from.

The pho is the obvious "go-to", with an incredibly flavor packed savory broth. Pho can be ordered in small and large bowls, and comes with a generous helping of noodles, tender meat, scallions and onions. A side dish of bean sprouts, Thai basil, wild coriander leaves, lime wedges, and jalapeno slices accompanies each bowl. Also, table sauces such as sriracha, chili, hoisin, and fish sauce are at hand to dress up the soup.

Service at Pho Ha is almost too fast. The moment I sit down, hot tea is served, and after ordering, pho and summer rolls are served almost instantly.

For drinks I enjoy both the coconut juice with fresh coconut slices, and the Vietnamese iced coffee. The exceedingly strong coffee is individually brewed at the table, in a french drip over condensed milk.

Casual, inexpensive and truly robust flavors and portions leave me satiated every time I visit. Pho Ha is the perfect place to warm up and enjoy a great meal, without breaking the piggy bank.