What the Pho? Although the debate over what is the most authentic pho in Montreal is often…read morecontentious, the owner-chef at Pho Do couldn't care less, as he focuses on crafting his own potion and cooks for guests only as he knows how to, the way he would for his own family.
After years of kitchen experimentation, building upon a family recipe, the result is one of the best bowl's of authentic deliciousness you can find in Montreal.
He uses the best beef bones on the market, key to pack in the flavours of deep, savoury and clear broth, also balanced, where no one ingredient predominates -- my main peeve is the overpowering fragrance of star anise or clovers often found in most restaurants.
The bowl is then dressed with rice noodles that are slightly precooked but never mushy or too sticky, lawyered with unwavering quality AAA beef brisket and round, sliced thinly but not too paper thin to provide some texture you can bite into. Depending on the combination you chose, additional items such a beef balls, tendons, stomach lining, can be added.
And then, the vegetables and herbs are always served sparkling clean and crispy! Fresh mint, asian basil, sawtooth/mexican coriander, bean sprouts, limes, chili peppers are served as accompaniments where you can pick and choose what they like.
In addition, there are other variations such as vegetable & shrimp Pho, grilled chicken Pho or if you are into spicy, can order a hearty bowl of Bun Bo Hue -- yes a different type of broth but that's for another post.
There are also a variety of tasty rice platters with pork chop, grilled beef, grilled pork, grilled chicken, grilled shrimp or brochette versions of the aforementioned. Appetizers such as crispy imperial rolls, traditional soft spring rolls with beef, chicken or shrimp, even tempura shrimp!
To wash all this down, you can try Vietnamese slow drip coffee, refreshing bean desserts or go for the win, with the highly addictive hot and crispy fried banana with a side ball or vanilla ice cream.
All in all, you may arguably have your favourite Pho place, but I urge you to rush to this secret spot in Villeray before the crowds line up, speak with husband and wife, parents and original owners of Pho Mymy, who have returned to the Montreal Pho scene and serve us the best and quick meals you can ask for!
