A few posts to help me catch up with my backlog.
Pho Ha Noi:
A few months back, when I was feeling under the weather, I really wanted some noodle soup. It's what I crave when feeling ill. I was at the office lamenting the lack of decent options in the area. One of the guys mentioned Pho Ha Noi. Pho Ha Noi? I'd been there a couple of years back a couple of times and really wasn't too impressed. But, the fellow was adamant that the "House Special Combination Noodle Soup" was going to be just the thing. So why not give it a try?
So I took the short drive over and ordered it ($9.99). And this is what I got.
Well, the shrimp was nice and plump and the slice of (pho cut) brisket tasty. But other than that……well, it's tax season, we'll call this a "write-off". I've always thought many of the dishes here were riffs on using Chinese fast-food ingredients. And this really didn't change my opinion. From the mediocre Chinese style wheat noodles, like you'll find in the cold case of your friendly neighborhood Chinese Market, to the broccoli, sliced carrots and cabbage. And that broth was really weak, with barely a hint of flavor except salt/MSG….at least it was hot.
But it did nothing to make me feel better. Funny thing, everytime I've visited this place it's been based on recommendations, ordering recommended dishes……..
Pho Ha Noi
6904 Miramar Rd
San Diego, CA 92121
Tim Ky Noodle:
I had some time for lunch. I wanted Chinese Hot Pot, but Calvin wanted Tim Ky. We brought Big Daniel along….he didn't have a clue what Beef Sate Egg Noodle (dry) was, but ordered it anyway. And really liked it.
My opinion of this version of this dish remains the same as on my previous visit. The meat fairly good, decently tender; though there's a slight powdery mouthfeel to it. I feel it could use a bit more onions, sate sauce, spice, shallots, and some "umph". Still, it definitely not bad. The broth was pretty good this time around…..not too much MSG.
I gotta get my next fix from Minh Ky.
Still, it was a fast and satisfying meal.
Tim Ky Noodle
9330 Mira Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92126