You may find more Vietnamese eateries serving pho–that nation’s popular beef noodle soup–along Argyle Street in Uptown than anywhere else in Chicago.
At Play checks out a trio. One bit of advice: Pronounce it as FUH??–as if you’re asking a question.
THE PLACE: NHU HOA CAFE, 1020 W. Argyle St., 773-878-0618
THE STATS: “#7, Special rice noodle soup with medium-cooked beef slices, well-done beef and beef balls” $6.95
THE COMMENTS: The brew: Herby-tasting broth with a slight garlicky aftertaste. The beef: Plenty, but pieces are too small–you have to fish for `em. The package: Best looking pho. Decorated with cilantro, black pepper, shaved onions, scallions, chili flakes, garlic and ground peanuts.
BEST BET
THE PLACE: PHO XE LUA, 1021 W. Argyle St., 773-275-7512
THE STATS: “#6, Beef eye round, brisket and soft tendon” $4.95
THE COMMENTS: The brew: Sweet smelling; light and savory tasting. The beef: Generous with the goods. Brisket and soft tendon especially succulent. The package: Rice noodles have a nice, chewy bite. Cilantro, scallions and onion garnish. Most bang for the buck.
THE PLACE: PHO 777, 1065 W. Argyle St., 773-561-9909
THE STATS: “#1, Eye of round steak, well done flanks, fat brisket, soft tendon, bible tripe, meatball.” $5.50
THE COMMENTS: The brew: Herb-infused broth was the lightest. The beef: Sheer variety of meats is something to behold. Eye of round was a perfect medium-rare. Got only half of a plump meatball. The package: Generous noodles, served with white onion rings, cilantro and scallions. But meat gets first billing.
