Pho So 1

This pho mini-chain has locations dotted across the western San Fernando Valley, but the flagship location in Van Nuys earns the title of best pho spot in the Valley. The slightly murky broth here is as aromatic as a car wash air freshener, and we love that the dac biet (house special) comes loaded with slippery chunks of fatty brisket and tendon. They also make a less-commonly-seen beef stew pho that’s hearty enough to get you through a freak blizzard. Grab a table in the spacious (but somehow always packed) dining room and prepare to flag down a waiter to take your order.