Pho Mama, 1640 Decoto Rd., Union City, CA 94587
Pho Mama replaced another pho restaurant. The menu includes noodle soups, pho, rice plates, garlic noodle plates, vermicelli bowls, appetizers, drinks, and desserts. They don’t have pork skin, pork blood, kidneys, soy milk, or even banh beo, banh cuon, etc. I guess they toned down the menu thinking not many Vietnamese were likely to eat there?
Fried garlic noodles with lemongrass tofu ($10.95): The noodles were thick and soft. I didn’t think they were that garlicky, but they definitely did have garlic. The lemongrass tofu with onions and bell peppers was very flavorful but too salty. The tofu was in rectangles and had been lightly fried, then coated in lemongrass sauce. The pickled carrots and daikon added some sweetness and crunch.
Prices are reasonable and portions ample. The décor is simple with booths, wood floors, and pictures of Thailand. They also played music videos while I was there. Condiments and utensils are kept at each table.
3.5 out of 5 stars
By Lolia S.