Rumika Suzuki H.
Google
I love Pho Hung on Powell, so I thought it would be the same experience at the 82nd location. How wrong I was…
When I walked in, I noticed a strong mildew smell, like someone had wiped a table with a smelly cloth. It caught me off guard, but I was so hungry that I ordered anyway. A couple walked in after me, sat down, and left shortly after. My guess is they were turned off by the smell.
The service at the Powell location is so fast, even when tables are full. In my general experience, pho is something you don’t wait too long for. I had the longest wait for my pho of my life. A guy who ordered right before me and I kept lifting our heads and looking toward the kitchen. The place wasn’t even half full. We were so confused.
Finally the pho came, served by an uncle from the kitchen, with his thumbs in the bowl. Really? I know the bowl gets super hot, but I have to assume that aunties and uncles working at pho places know better. Again, a totally unmatched experience (not in a good way) from the Powell location. They also got my order wrong. I specifically asked for no green onions because I can’t have them, but they didn’t omit them.
I was heartbroken by the time I finished my meal. I thought I could trust the Pho Hung brand. But then, when I paid, the auntie at the counter was so cold—no words at all, not even “thank you” or “see you next time.” It’s not that I tipped so I deserve better service. I just thought basic greetings were fundamental to regular social interactions.
I can’t wait to go back to my favorite Powell location next time. Do they have different owners, or are they just managed differently? I feel bad leaving a negative review, but I don’t want other Pho Hung fans to have a disappointing experience at the 82nd location. Your wallet and heart deserve better.