Phuc Loi Life

My love for ethnic foods has been nurtured by my father's insistence that I try new things and learn about the world around me.

Fortunately, this nurturing has impacted my life - especially in terms of my career in international relations (see my IR commentary blog, "10/90").

Vietnamese food is relatively new to me. My first experience with it was three years ago at St. Louis' Lemongrass. Without a doubt, Pho ("FUH") is my standout favorite item of Vietnamese cuisine.

A traditional beef and noodle soup, pho is served with fresh basil, lime, bean sprouts and peppers to be added to taste. I love the umami (savoriness) of the beef, the spice of the peppers, and the bite of fresh lime and mint.

The trick is eating it. Use your spoon to slurp the broth, alternating with chopsticks to nibble on noodles, meat, and veggies.

Here are some pictures of my family adventure to Phuc Loi, a recently reviewed Saint Louis, family owned restaurant on Gravois and Spring.

Chrysanthemum Tea, a cool, sweet and delicate compliment to my deliciously spicy soup.

My brother and his dish.

My Bun bo Hue, beefy and very spicy soup. I love spice and can usually be seen adding lots of peppers to my food. I'm sure glad I tried this broth first because, WOW, did it have kick!

The service was very quick, helpful, and friendly, which one certainly appreciates when exploring a different culture! Next time, I am going to try a Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich.