So I’m totally late on the pho love. Oop. So I’ve been on the grind to play catch up + become well versed in the delectable noodle soup. There’s nothing worse than being out of date on the latest trend or not knowing how to properly order something at a San Francisco establishment. No seriously. Never make the mistake of walking into Philz without having a friend prep you and taking a look at their website. If anything, just don’t try to order a soy latte there. It isn’t going to happen. It’ll only end in a painfully embarrassing experience for everyone involved.

With that said, my favorite so far has been Mau on 18^th and Mission. Along with the trendy décor + trendy music + trendy crowd, the staff is incredibly patient and helpful, even though I always know I’m bound to order the vegetable pho.

Be warned: the portions are HUGE. As with the experience + aesthetic, Mau doesn’t skimp on the food. It can easily take two people to tackle a bowl. You may want to bring a companion with similar taste buds or deal with the horrors of balancing a doggie bag around the city.

The noodle house also touts a rather impressive beer listing. Nothing crazy nor particularly big, but they steer clear of the restaurant usuals. The IPA they have on tap is particularly tasty and offers a nice cool backing to the steaming broth.

I’ve only been here for dinner, but I’ll need to make my way over in the middle of the day and some point because their banh mi selection looks pretty delectable. Also note, for a place located in an area with a happening nightlife, Mau doesn’t stay open very late (10pm). Also, they’re closed on Sundays. So if you were next door at Elbo Room or down the street at Skylarke, don’t venture over here for a fix for that nasty Saturday hangover.

-Robert