Pho Rua Vang (Golden Turtle)

What is Pho Rua Vang (Golden Turtle)? Anchoring the corner of Ossington Avenue and Argyle Street since 1987, Pho Rua Vang (Golden Turtle) is a multi-generational Vietnamese staple that long predates the strip's hipster transition. Operated by the Nguyen family, the venue pairs an unfussy, functional indoor dining room with a popular covered side patio during the warmer months. Seating is casual and utilitarian, built for quick turnarounds and steaming noodle bowls.

Pho Rua Vang (Golden Turtle) Menu & What to Order The main draw is the Phở Tái, featuring thinly sliced rare beef submerged in a deeply aromatic, slow-simmered bone marrow broth scented with star anise and clove. Fans routinely boost their soups with the fiery house-made lemongrass chili condiment, Satay Love, which is also available by the jar. Other stellar picks include the spicy citrus-tinged Bún Bò Huế, crisp deep-fried Chả Giò, and tofu vegetable pho, balanced with a strong, condensed-milk-sweetened Cà Phê Sữa Đá.

Know Before You Go Service is strictly walk-in, and while lunchtime and weekend lineups can trail onto Argyle, tables turn quickly. Transit is straightforward via the 501 Queen streetcar or 63 Ossington bus, while vehicle street parking is notoriously limited along the strip. The restaurant operates Wednesday through Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and is closed on Tuesdays.