We have walked past Phở Tam on the corner of Leeds and Ryan streets many times and it’s always abuzz with customers, but this was our first visit.
Phở Tam is a spacious corner shop with large windows that invite natural light and the interior is designed for efficiency. Customers can dine outdoors if they wish which creates a distinctive dining experience reminiscent of Vietnam, particularly on a warm summer day.
During our visit the restaurant was full of predominantly Vietnamese folk. For us, dining in a pho restaurant bustling with Vietnamese patrons instils a profound sense of reassurance. It signals that the food is likely to be authentic and of high quality.
I selected the phở bộ đặc biệt and service was speedy.
While phở bò generally refers to beef noodle soup in general, phở bộ đặc biệt includes a combination of different cuts, while a basic, non-special bowl might only include one or two types of meat (for example, just rare beef or just meatballs).
My tip: when enjoying a nice bowl of pho, I like to sip the broth first before adding any condiments to it. This allows me to fully appreciate the rich flavours of the soup on its own, ensuring that any additional ingredients enhance rather than overpower the original taste. After tasting the broth, I can better adjust the flavours according to my preference. I always add the complimentary basil and bean shoots.
Their phở bộ đặc biệt was delicious, with a sweet note. The bowl was packed with generous amounts of sliced beef, beef balls, chunks of tendon, and strips of tripe. The dish is garnished with some spring onions and white pepper. Ingredients were fresh.
There are plenty of ways for one to adjust the broth for crispness, sweetness, acidity or heat. There are lime wedges, cut chili (bird’s eye), soya sauce, vinegar, hoisin and chilli sauce;. I usually just add some chilli oil into my broth and as a dipping sauce, mix some cut chilli.
Their prices are very reasonable. My bowl cost $17 with other combinations averaging at about $16.
I was very surprised at how early this restaurant opens, as early as 8.30am (9.30am on Sunday). This is probably testament to the restaurant’s reputation and the visits from their loyal customers from the area.
Phở Tam | Shop 1 7/9 Leeds St,
Footscray VIC 3011
