Harrison Thorp
ROCHESTER - Pho Zaap is one of five Asian restaurants within a couple of minutes walk in the downtown, but it stands out.
Located in the former Papaya Thai restaurant space, this small eatery’s atmosphere is relaxed, a perfect place to enjoy the diverse flavors of Laotian, Vietnamese, Thai and Cambodian cuisine.
I chose a variation of Kao Piek, with chicken, which comprises a huge bowl of super-savory beef broth, that’s probably what Asian folk might describes as “comfort food” like and American likes mac n’ cheese.
The broth is filled with whatever protein you want. I got chicken, which shows up as flatten slabs of tender chicken breast meat that soaks up the flavorful beef broth.
The soup comes with many tasty surprises, like cilantro, grilled garlic crumbles, onions and mounds of rice noodles buried in the broth, which if I didn’t say earlier, is soooooo yummy.
On the side you get a small plate of bean sprouts to toss on your soup and a little refreshing spritz of shaved carrots, cucumber and bell pepper, which give you some tartness to enjoy with the ultra-savory soup.
Our server was Marina, who is from Cambodia and was as sweet as can be and very attentive and helpful in our selection. The menu clearly marks gluten free options, which are many.
My whole meal was around $20, and I brought home at least a quart of soup with a ton of chicken slabs in a sturdy plastic container, enough really for two more meals.
If you haven’t tried Pho Zaap yet you’re missing something you shouldn’t miss.
Pho Zaap is located at 101 North Main St.
To learn more click here.
Atmosphere ★★★★
Food ★★★★
Service ★★★★