Pho Thien Lo Duc – A Restaurant Drawing Crowds for 30 Years with Just One Dish

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Explore Hanoi and Indulge in Pho Thien Lo Duc – A Single-Dish Restaurant Still Popular After 30 Years

For three decades, the eatery on Lo Duc Street has been serving only rolled rare beef pho, yet it still draws crowds every day.

Explore Hanoi and Indulge in Pho Thien Lo Duc – A Single-Dish Restaurant Still Popular After 30 Years

The reputation of Pho Thien Lo Duc is not limited to the capital; this brand has gone international and satisfies international tourists. However, whether Pho Thien is delicious or not, whether its flavor remains the same as before, is still a matter of debate.

In Hanoi, there are families who have been going to Pho Thien Lo Duc for years every weekend morning, while there are also diners who firmly boycott this address after trying it once. The restaurant does not retain customers, but no one denies that it is one of the busiest pho restaurants in Hanoi.

The beef in the pho here is not simply rare but quickly stir-fried in a large pan with various spices, onions, garlic, and fresh ginger before being placed in the bowl. Hence, not only is the meat fragrant and flavorful, but the broth is also rich with a layer of hot, aged fat on top. There is no pandering here; the restaurant serves only one dish for those who truly want to savor it.

The green onions, cut into long strands, blanket the surface of the pho bowl, concealing a substantial amount of beef underneath. This ingredient not only enhances health but also plays a crucial role in creating the full flavor of the dish.

Many first-time patrons, while looking around bewilderedly for a spot, are promptly intercepted at the entrance by a succinct statement from the staff: 'Fifty thousand for a bowl, pay upfront!' Many are taken aback by this attitude, as the establishment appears so unassuming that one could easily overlook it. A photo of a serving of pho with its listed price is also prominently displayed in the kitchen area, adjacent to the entrance.

During the summer days, everyone is sweating profusely, yet still immersed in enjoying the delicious bowl of pho. The cramped space is bustling, the fan's cooling breeze inadequate, and the kitchen uncomfortably close to the seating area. Diners leave promptly after finishing their meals, without lingering for conversation or rest, unlike in many other spaces. When asked by a familiar customer residing a few blocks away, he mentioned finding the old-fashioned flavor here and remarked, 'The dining ordeal culture, Hanoi-style, may not appeal to many, but I find it oddly comforting.'

Ordering iced tea to accompany the meal for relief from the heat, patrons are met with another curt remark: 'We don't have any!' Therefore, once enamored by the pho here, on subsequent visits, simply valet park and sit by the nearby beverage stall, awaiting a server to bring the pho for leisurely enjoyment. One can also order additional poached eggs and fried dough sticks to complete the flavors, in the Hanoi style.

Despite being more expensive than other budget pho eateries, the service attitude remains largely unchanged despite numerous customer complaints. The taste, subjective as it is, has both admirers and detractors, yet both Westerners and locals flock to the establishment. It could be said that in Hanoi, there aren't many long-standing, iconic eateries with such allure; those who don't like it simply stay away, while those who do can't venture far without reminiscing about a steaming, fragrant bowl of beef pho.

According to Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour

MytourJuly 1, 2016

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pho Thien Lo Duc's beef pho unique compared to other pho restaurants?

Pho Thien Lo Duc stands out due to its exclusive offering of rolled rare beef pho, prepared with beef that is quickly stir-fried with spices, garlic, and ginger, resulting in a rich flavor. This unique cooking method enhances the overall taste, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

How does the atmosphere at Pho Thien Lo Duc affect the dining experience?

The atmosphere at Pho Thien Lo Duc is bustling and cramped, contributing to a lively yet unpretentious dining experience. While the seating is limited and the kitchen close by, diners often feel a sense of authenticity that enhances their enjoyment of the food, despite the lack of typical restaurant comforts.

Is it necessary to pay upfront when ordering at Pho Thien Lo Duc?

Yes, customers are required to pay upfront when ordering at Pho Thien Lo Duc. This policy, although surprising to some, is a part of the restaurant's straightforward approach, ensuring quick service and maintaining the flow of a busy dining environment.

Can customers customize their pho experience at Pho Thien Lo Duc?

While Pho Thien Lo Duc specializes in its beef pho, customers can enhance their meal with additional items like poached eggs and fried dough sticks. However, the restaurant's strict focus on its signature dish means customization options are limited compared to other eateries.