I tried a new Vietnamese restaurant in Harvard Square last night. They have lots of vegetarian options. Vegetarian means vegetarian there (no chicken stock, etc.). They also have plenty of seafood and meat selections. The menu is smaller than you usually see in Vietnamese places, but is still interesting. The service was quick, very pleasant, and very helpful. As soon as I sat down I was presented with an 8 oz glass of warm tea. It was refilled continually I had the vegetarian Pho (a huge bowl of rice noodle soup). It arrived about 3 minutes after I ordered it. It was fantastic. Flavorful vegetable stock, not oversalted, not oily, generous noodles, about a dozen large slices of fried tofu floating in it (which resisted getting water-logged), broccoli, carrots, bok choy, mushrooms, baby corn, fresh coriander, scallions. As is customary with pho, a side plate with beansprouts, a sprig of Vietnamese basil, and a wedge of lime was presented. The side plate lacked the usual tiny hot peppers, though : (. However, they did bring a tray of 3 different hot sauces to add, without my having to request it. I could only finish about 2/3 of the portion. My check ... $5.00 My one criticism: An extremely dirty floor. They are still putting the final touches on the space, but they could at least wash the floor! The restaurant is located in The Garage, across from coffee connection, above John Harvards Brew House (where soup and salad used to be). I can't remember its name. Christine
Boston, MA