Yes, I made out to Virginia! I was putzing one day and was surprised when I found myself at Seven Corners. But also so happy because I knew I was in store for outstanding pho! I decided to go to Eden Center and I wandered into Pho Xe Lua.
- Food: They only serve pho but I ordered my standard — Tai pho and an iced tea. The beef was raw and so paper thin it was awesome. I slurped my way through the meal and I was contemplating getting a second bowl for the next day. It was delicious and it’s my favorite bowl of pho so far!
UPDATE 10/2008: I went again but ordered it to go. This time, they had ngo gai — Asian cilantro that’s prickly with a kick and awesome. This is still my favorite pho place…
- Service: There is an older guy who seated me, took my order, and ran the cash register. There was an older woman walking around as well and a busboy. They leave you alone to linger as long as you’d like, but this also means they’re not stopping by constantly to refill your soda or ice tea glass.
- Atmosphere: There’s 15-20 tables and the interior won’t impress anyone. When I first sat down, it wasn’t busy but by the time I left, it was almost completely packed. And in the corner, there was a table of men playing some sort of domino-type game.
- Attire: Casual
- Price: $
- Overall: Bring your cash because it’s cash-only! The large bowl of pho and ice tea was about $11, but it was seriously amazing. I can’t wait to go back!
Details:
- Hours: Daily 7:30am- 8:00pm
- Address:Eden Center; 6755-A Wilson Blvd; Falls Church, VA 22044
- Ph: 703-533-3130
November 7, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Since there are some truly amazing Pho places around the capital, you should know of two to avoid. Strictly speaking they’re not Pho places but Vietnamese restaurants. Still, if you want a good Pho, don’t bother with Nam Viet on Connecticut Ave NW opposite the Uptown Cinema, nor Del Ray Garden, an oddly country cottage-styled eatery at 4918 Del Ray Ave in Bethesda. Both make really poor Pho.
April 13, 2009 at 2:38 pm
I agree Pho Xe Lua is the BEST PHO in northern virginia…best pho by far at Eden Center. And Toan, the owner is a very kind person.