Pho had a very humble beginning as a simple street food in Vietnam. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, and it was primarily popular among the working-class population. Pho vendors would set up portable stalls or kitchens in the streets of Hanoi, and they served this affordable and hearty noodle soup to laborers and locals. The original pho was quite basic, typically consisting of rice noodles, thinly sliced beef or chicken, and a straightforward broth made from simmering bones. It was seasoned with a few aromatic spices, such as star anise and cinnamon, and served with minimal garnishes. Over time, pho evolved and diversified, incorporating regional variations and culinary influences. While it began as a modest and affordable meal for those with limited means, it has since become a global culinary sensation enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Its transformation from a humble street food to an iconic dish that is celebrated worldwide is a testament to its delicious flavors and enduring appeal.
Similar to Pho, our restaurant, Urban Vietnamese (UV) also had a humble beginning: established in May 2022 with limited resources, a small space and a lot of challenges. Yet, with our determination, hard work, dedication and a great passion for good food and hospitality, the restaurant continues to grow over time. We apply the practice of taking traditional recipes and giving them a contemporary or innovative spin. This culinary approach combines the time-honored techniques, ingredients, and flavors of traditional dishes with modern cooking methods, presentation, and ingredients to create a fresh and exciting dining experience.
In addition, we believe "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" meaning that achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in Pho often requires a deceptively simple approach. Crafting the broth, the heart of Pho, involves simmering basic ingredients like bones, herbs, and spices for hours. The simplicity of these components allows their flavors to meld and develop into something sophisticated and multi-layered. Balancing the flavors of sweet, savory, and aromatic in Pho is a testament to simplicity. It's about harmonizing the few key components to create a complex and satisfying taste. So, in the context of cooking Pho, "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" underscores the idea that simplicity in the individual elements and techniques leads to a deeply sophisticated and flavorful culinary experience.
We always stay committed to our two main objectives: 1) providing the best customer experience and 2) celebrating and promoting Vietnamese culture through culinary art.
Best Regards,
Khoi Dang, Urban Vietnamese Founder