FOOD FRIDAY: Pho All That Ails You

Chicago is the city where the weather is as unpredictable as the results of any sporting event. On cold, windy and rainy days, I find myself craving comfort food. Now, there are as many different comfort foods as there are people. But in recent years, I have become a Phonatic.

What is a phonatic? Glad you asked. Phonatic is any person, who shares my love for, or rather addiction to, pho. Pho is a traditional Vietnamese beef soup, made with deliciously savory broth, thinly sliced beef, meatballs, tripe and tendon. It is served with a heaping platter of fresh sprouts, herbs, lime wedges and jalapeno slices. Properly prepared pho, I am convinced, could heal broken bones, cure colds, chase away the blues and bring about world peace. Well, maybe not that last one.

There is a group of like minded diners in Chicago, they call themselves The Phonatics. The Phonatics hold regular gatherings and explore Chicago pho scene. Whether you are new to pho or are already a pho lover, this group is for you.

From very traditional to contemporary, you can find delicious pho in Chicago for every palate. I love ordering different variations of this soup on my rambles around Argyle street. A recent favorite is oxtail pho at a tiny place called Pho 888.

Oxtail pho at Pho 888 (Photo by Gourmet Rambler)

If you want your pho with contemporary twist, ramble on over to the sleek and sophisticated Saigon Sisters. The chef infuses all the dishes with seasonal ingredients, all the while respecting the pho tradition. Pho selections here change daily. Grab a bowl of Kobe beef pho, whenever it’s available.

So, next time you are under the weather, or just blue on a rainy day, try a big bowl of pho. It is a cure for all things (well, almost) that ail you.

Hungry?  Want more?  Follow me on Twitter at Gourmet Rambler