Somewhere you should eat… Pho

The constantly evolving culinary landscape in the capital means you can now expect to see easy dining outlets that specialise in unique international cuisine once the preserve of those-in-the-know – ahem, Mexican –  but now it seems Vietnamese food is happily making the rounds, with Pho now operating in six locations in the UK.  With a heart for simple and nutritious street food, Pho first landed in the UK in 2005 and has been lauded for its use of  quality ingredients and its affordable prices – so being a newbie to both Vietnamese food and Pho, I recently visited the ambient and cosy Wardour Street branch, discovering this cuisine is definitely a refreshing alternative to the usual pan-asian fare.

Starters like the goi cuon ga (summer rolls with chicken breast and fresh herbs – £4.25) and the massive goi du du (papaya salad with chicken and fresh herbs – £6.75)  make for a tasty  intro, with mint  and side sauces like nuoc cham and peanut giving a fresh kick. As for the Pho – Vietnam’s national dish – expect a deliciously hearty main, created with homemade stock, and served with a side of  basil, mint, coriander, bean sprouts, lime and chilli so you can season your meal to taste.  I opted for the tiger prawn version (Pho Tom – £8.95).

Finally, dessert consisted of the pandan pancake (£5.95)  – curiously green and chewy, filled with sugary coconut  and a yummy honey and ginger ice cream – topping off the sort of meal I’d recommend to anyone after a neat and guilt-free lunch option which I imagine is even lovelier after hours. (Words: Matilda Egere-Cooper)