Noshwellmenu

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Pho Hoang Tung is a family owned Vietnamese restaurant tucked away in an unlikely corner of a plaza on Schoolhouse Street in Coquitlam. It’s a small, unsuspecting spot to grab a bowl of noodle soup or sandwich amongst big box movie theatres and supermarkets.

If it weren’t for the name and the few knick knacks on the wall, Pho Hoang Tung could have easily passed for any kind of restaurant. But the space is clean and the menu selection offers the same type of dishes you’d find at most other Pho restaurants.

(Above: Fresh basil and uncooked bean sprouts — the standard garnish.)

We had a hunger for spicy soup, so we opted for two orders of Bun Bo Hue — a mildly spicy soup stewed for hours with beef bones. The broth had a heavy shrimp paste flavour, while the other spices took a back seat. The soup came with slivered green cabbage, onions, sliced beef, beef balls and cartilage, but something felt missing. The two hot peppers we asked for to nibble on helped spice things up. Overall, the soups were ok, but underwhelming.

(Above: Bun Bo Hue — Special, Spicy Noodle Soup)

Our bill including taxes and tips came to just under $20 which is a bit pricier than most Pho restaurants. We received a cold shoulder reception when we first arrived, which set the tone for the meal. However, I have to give it up to the young gentleman who later waited on us — he was friendly and kept our experience from ultimately falling flat.

Perfect for: Pre or post-theatre alternative to fast food in Coquitlam.

The Details

401 – 100 Schoolhouse Street, Coquitlam
604.519.0117

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