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Absolutely Pho-bulous: 9 Slurp-Worthy Spots for Pho

One of the best things about living in Seattle—aside from the fantastic views, the easy access to nature and the reasonable weather (polar vortex, anyone?) is the wide and delicious variety of available ethnic cuisine. From Thai to Mexican to Italian to Greek, if you crave it, chances are you can get it, and it’s going to be good. Pho (pronounced “fuh”, for the uninitiated) is the latest craze in the Vietnamese dining scene—a new restaurant will likely pop up in your ‘hood before you can say Sriracha. But which ones are kid-friendly? Never fear, foodie family—flip through for nine fantastic pho joints for the whole pho-mily.

Best Value for Kids: Pho So 1 (International District)

Let’s face it—sometimes even a small bowl of pho is too large for our littles, and will they really eat all that stuff? If you’re not sure if your kiddo will like it, or you just want a great deal on awesome Vietnamese food, check out Pho So 1. Their kids’ menu includes a choice of plain noodle pho for $2.50, pho with meat for $3.25 or grilled pork with rice for $4.50. And don’t worry, hungry parents, because they’ve got all your favorites too! The authentic and comfortable restaurant serves 20 varieties of pho, from veggie or tofu pho (in beef broth) to organic chicken to brisket, flank, tripe and more. They also have a variety of vermicelli bowls, rice dishes and appetizers like spring rolls, chicken wings and deep fried tofu. We think you can’t go wrong at this International District staple.

We recommend: Parking underground—there’s free parking below Pho So 1 (and in the lot if there’s room). Free parking in the International District and great food—it’s a win-win!

Pho So 1
1207 South Jackson St., #107
Seattle, Wa 98144
206-860-2824
Online: phoso1seattle.com

What is Pho?
With an estimated 73 Pho restaurants in the Seattle area (#3 in the nation according to the website phofever.com), you’re likely to find one around every corner. Pho is a Vietnamese beef noodle soup, consisting of rice noodles and a variety of meats (or tofu and veggies) in a beef (or chicken or veggie) broth seasoned with anise, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Yum! Provided with every order, fresh bean sprouts, Thai basil, lime wedges and jalapeno slices can be added, as well as Sriracha and hoisin or plum sauces, depending on your pho preferences.

Also Pho-nomenal
What the Pho: Great for the pho beginner—Southcenter, Bothell & Bellevue
La Lot: Fancy pho—Downtown Seattle
Papaya Vietnamese Cafe: Offers a “light pho” option with zucchini noodles—Renton & Bellevue
Pho Tai: Nice kids’ options, friendly service—White Center

Where’s your favorite place to eat pho with the kids? Let us know in a comment below!

-Erin Cranston (words and some photos)

Photos thanks to: Rowena D on Yelp; Atn H on Yelp;  Jesse P on Yelp; Paula R on Yelp; Meme S on Yelp