Pho Viet is one of the newest additions and the only Vietnamese restaurant in Manhattan’s culinary scene. It offers a tantalizing array of Vietnamese delicacies; each bite is a journey through the vibrant flavors of Vietnam, from the iconic pho to a myriad of other unique dishes.

Inside, the space is decorated with conventional Asian conical hats, which are hand-painted with various colorful illustrations of Vietnam in traditional folk art styles. The restaurant also has large murals of various Vietnam landscapes and big cartoony illustrations of pho and boba, two items it specializes in. Overall, the environment felt modern yet filled with personality — a perfect spot for a date night or to get together with friends. 

While initially looking at the menu, the prices felt high for a college budget, averaging about $20 per bowl after tax and tip, but then I saw the portion size. Each dish could easily feed two people, making the pricing feel more reasonable, so I’d recommend coming hungry or bringing a friend to share with.

The staff was fast, friendly and welcoming, especially to those who had never had Vietnamese food before. They were well-informed when describing different dishes and helped me to choose pho tom, a noodle soup dish with shrimp as the main protein.

The entire meal, from the broth to the shrimp, was very flavorful, especially when pairing it with the complementary fresh-cut scallion or enoki mushroom mixed in. Each bowl has a plate of optional additions like fresh jalapenos, enoki mushrooms and a variety of sauces to add spicy or umami flavors to your liking. 

Pho Viet is a true culinary gem. With its delectable pho, friendly staff and inviting atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for all food enthusiasts. The quiet ambiance and diverse menu give it the potential to become a hotspot for college students, especially during the cold months and final exams. I, for one, am looking forward to many more visits to Pho Viet.