Vietnamese Pho @ Xin Chao, Ropponmatsu, Fukuoka

A warm hello from a friend or a stranger is always a welcoming sight. What if that comes in the form of a bowl? Now, that will be amazing.  

Welcome!

"Xin Chao" which literally translates to "hello" in Vietnamese is a pho noodle bar located in the small alleyways of Ropponmatsu, not too far from the courthouse. With a history that spans almost 40 years, this place offers authentic Vietnamese food. It is so good in fact, my Vietnamese friends recommended me to visit this joint. 

The menu. Very obvious what is their star maker here.

Being the pho specialist, it is not a surprise that almost everything here is based on this noodle dish. And for one lunch visit, I had the pork pho which comes with a side dish of your choice. I got myself the deep fried spring rolls. That combo stood at 880 yen. It should be noted that most of the menu stands around that price, except for a few dishes like their shrimp pho which is at 1100 yen. Then again shrimp is expensive. 

Its here!

Despite being a simple menu, the food is amazing. Being a specialist, the lady behind the counter really knows what she is doing. The pho noodles comes with a side of green, and she will ask if you would like to have coriander along side it. Most Japanese locals do not like it, but I enjoy the herby aroma it brings. And of course my side of fried spring rolls. 

Colourful!

The first impression is pretty simple as well, but very inviting. With no frills and all punch, this bowl satisfies really well. The soup was clear and soothing, with a sweetness that is only available from Vietnamese cuisine. The noodles were the classic rice noodles which is famous in Indochinese cuisine. And the boiled pork that came together was tender but firm at the same time. The side salad can actually be mixed with the noodles. This is actually a good idea as the heat helps the veggies to steam up and soften, making it an easier eating experience. 

Perfection

The spring rolls were also pretty spot on. It was bit hard to eat, as you would need to wrap it with a lettuce leaf. However the contrasting flavours and textures really make this an unforgettable experience. The filling seems to be made out of beaten egg and shrimp, which gives off an interesting and dynamic savouriness. And with a dip of hot sauce made this absolutely incredible. 

Another shot of the store front. 

It should be noted that I have been here many times before but I have not written about this place. But I feel it is time to give XIn Chao the love it deserves. it is so famous that sometimes people would even wait outside to sample their food. Then again, it can only sit a maximum of 7. Still, if you are in this part of town, and you want a good bowl of noodles that is not tonkotsu ramen, then this is the place to be. If you fancy a go, then the address is as follows:

2 Chome-3-17 Ropponmatsu, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0044