Located on one of the corners of a bustling shopping center, Pho Ha is located conveniently right off the 57 Freeway at Imperial Highway. Adjacent to the Brea Mall, this location is close to shopping and entertainment. But as far as hunger goes, does this Vietnamese restaurant have what it takes to satisfy your hunger?
Deco
As most people who frequent Vietnamese restaurants know, cleanliness and aesthetics aren't exactly the high priorities at these places. However, at Pho Ha, this location is highly polished and spiffy. It is clearly illuminated, filled with clean tile and marble, and occupied with greenery. It is the cleanest Vietnamese restaurant I've ever been to, and it made me feel a bit nervous on the food, since some of the best Vietnamese food I've had were in the dirtiest of restaurants. Still, they did a great job in designing the interior for comfort and visual splendor.
Service
As pretty as the place is, the service is awful. Following Asian rules, don't be afraid to raise your hand, speak your mind, do a little dance, whatever it takes to get their attention because outside of your initial order, they won't come to you unless you make them.
Food
The food here surprised me. As I've come to find out, the smellier the restaurant is, the better the pho. Pho Hana didn't really have a lingering stank so it worried me; however, their pho was better than I expected. The broth was simmered nicely, with a robust flavor that was both flavorful and slightly sweet. They are generous with the amount of meat they give you in the pho, and the bowls are much bigger than you'd expect.
When it comes to their spring rolls, they are big and flavorful. The meat is nice and warm, seared nicely on the grill. The mint is fresh and the noodles are soft and chewy. Dip it into their peanut sauce and you have a delicious, chewy mouthful that compliments the piping hot pho that'll help ail any cold or chill you've got.
Price
The pricing here is more expensive than most Vietnamese restaurants you'll find in Westminster or Los Angeles. They definitely aimed their price to fit the pocketbooks of the area so the prices are about a dollar more than most Vietnamese restaurants. Still, spending less than $7 for a good size bowl of pho is still a good bargain.
Conclusion
Whether getting away from the cold, rainy weather or simply meeting friends up for a quick meal, Pho Ha has got it going on. With a serene atmosphere, warm food, and a decent pricing, you could do much worse when it comes to Vietnamese cuisine in Brea.
Pho Ha
Brea Plaza Shopping Ctr
1619 E Imperial Hwy
Brea, CA 92823
(714) 255-9899
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