Med Salleh Viet

Best London Pho: Hidden Gem Delights!

Ah, the pleasures of discovery. Tucked away in the depths of Earl's Court, camouflaged effortlessly amid its superior neighbours, lies a spot that successfully marries quietude with the animated spirit of Vietnamese cuisine. Upon first glance, the discreet exterior might suggest anything but a vivid culinary experience. Yet, as I descended into this basement hideaway, every cautionary breath was met with an inviting whiff of lemongrass and broth—a scent potent enough to transport even the most sceptical soul straight to Hanoi’s bustling street markets.

The menu may read like an intended short story rather than a novel, but boy, does every dish hit its notes perfectly. The star of the show, and let’s not mince words here, is undoubtedly the rare beef pho—skill caged within a bowl that speaks sonnets with its tender meat and hypnotic broth, devoid either of or suspicious concoctions. Don't let the simplicity fool you; it took an integrity only years of perfecting could summon. As for the cast behind the scenes? Profiles bright and hospitable, each member adeptly meandering the tightrope between attentiveness and zen-like unobtrusiveness. Yes, perhaps your drink might suspiciously vanish under an avalanche of ice cubes, but are you truly complaining when your glass knows well how to conjure treasures from crushed lychee? This splendid gem of a Vietnamese haunt may feel like stumbling across buried treasure whilst questing for Westminster Abbey. Seek it out, savour it long—sometimes, nights made memorable stem not just from the food on offer, but on hearty servitude further accompanied by the unexpected unravelling of Adele crooning in the background (an elephant lodged happily within an impossibly tiny room). — Penelope Savory