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Phở Bắc Sup Shop
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Sometimes you’re looking for a date-night spot that requires a fancy outfit. Sometimes you need a place with a not-impossible parking situation. And sometimes, you just want a fun spot that serves good food. Next time that’s the case, consider Phở Bắc Sup Shop in the International District. It’s a cool, casual place to eat phở and Vietnamese bar snacks, and it belongs in your rotation. (It happens to have easy parking, too.)
You’re here first and foremost for phở, and you won’t be disappointed. We like the brisket and meatball bowls a lot, but our favorites are the massive short rib bowl and the special off-menu, only-available-sometimes phở with an entire half-chicken that’s been slow-poached in broth. (Your server will tell you whether this is available, and if it is, you want it.) This chicken version is the kind of phở we’d find a way to shrink ourselves for, if it meant we could dive into the bowl and hang out on a drumstick—where’s Rick Moranis when you need him? There are also delicious small plates, like pork and shrimp eggrolls, french fries with an herby lemongrass sauce, and double-fried wings with a tamarind coating.
photo credit: Nate Watters
Atmosphere-wise, this is a low-key place to come with friends and have a very good time. There are televisions above the bar playing an endless loop of music videos, there’s a big neon sign announcing that you’re in the “Phởcific Northwest,” and there’s even a photo booth in the back corner by the bar. In between drinks and soup, hop in for a few minutes to pass the time, even if it’s just to get some shots of you and your car keys celebrating how easy it was to find a spot.
The crowd is casual, ranging from big groups of friends to parents with screaming children, and it’s unlikely you’ll have to wait for a table. Which is a good thing, because you’re not going to want to wait any longer than necessary to take your seat, relax, and eat some quality phở.