After months of withdrawal, I have finally found an authentic Vietnamese restaurant in Athens with delicious homemade dishes: Mother Phở.
Mother Phở might seem familiar to Athens locals. Formerly Yummy Pho, the existing Vietnamese restaurant was re-opened with a new name and a newer look in January 2016.
Each batch of traditional phở (pronounced “fuh”) soup is made fresh with a house broth that takes up to twelve hours to make. Beef bone and a blend of spices (a special family recipe) flavor the broth, and the rice noodles, meat, and fixings are then cooked upon serving.
Only super thin-cut meats (such as eye-round steak or lean brisket) are served raw, while other protein selections are pre-cooked, and then cooked immediately while the broth is hot. Doing so preserves freshness and allows you to add “extras” to your liking.
Photo by Hui Lin
Owner Lin Dinh, who also owned Yummy Pho, describes Vietnamese food as “[a fusion of] Thai and Chinese food.” It is more savory than saucy. The majority, like phở, is not too heavy in oil, made with all-natural ingredients, and includes spices rich in antioxidants – making it a healthier option.
Photo by Hui Lin
I ordered the Spicy House Phở Siet with chicken and veggies. Made with a “blend of special house spices,” this phở option comes bursting with flavor unique from any other kind I’ve tried. Of course Dinh could not reveal all her secrets, but I did find some crushed peanuts, and I was ultimately sold on my new favorite dish.
Each bowl also comes with a plate of fixings — sliced jalepeño, cilantro, basil, and lime. Bring on the flavor!
Photo by Hui Lin
Mother Phở also offers a variety of Asian-inspired dishes: Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai, and curry entrees, and Boba Tea. I assure you that there is something for all of your picky friends. Needless to say, I did end up going back within the week to try their Pad Thai and it did not disappoint.
With a wide variety options to choose from, I challenge all Athens foodies to step outside of their southern comfort zones and spice it up at Mother Phở. If you can’t study abroad this semester, this place is the closest you can get to experiencing authentic Eastern cuisine.