Pho Cali 1578 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone: 941-955-2683 Fax: 941-366-7973

7.2	Food Presentation Decor Service Value 7.5 7 6 6 9

When you are in downtown Sarasota and want to dine someplace different, check out Pho Cali Vietnamese Noodle House!

Upon entering Pho Cali one is immediately struck by the “hustle bustle” of the seemingly small number of staff. Tables situated close together, all filled with diners; people waiting in a small area not sure to give their name or take a number for seating.  (Both systems being used the night we arrived.)  Glass topped tables quickly cleaned while satisfied guests leave with their “doggie bags” in hand informing us it is worth the wait!  And from our perspective it was.

After a short wait we were seated and immediately immersed in the details of an extensive menu.  Water glasses were quickly filled and our drink order taken.  Upon presenting our drinks the waiter was ready for our order.  Even though there was a short amount of time to discuss our intended selections, it was enough and we did not feel rushed.  This was efficiency in action!  We placed our order and anticipated the beginning of our food adventure.  As expected, the food arrived in an equally timely matter.  It became quite clear how this restaurant was able to keep the flow of diners moving in and out.

Our meals consisted of the following:

House Special Appetizer/Khai Vj Dac Biet: Combination of 2 egg rolls, 2 spring rolls, and 4 crispy shrimp rolls.  Served with house sauce and peanut sauce. $9.95
Crispy rolls, very fresh spring rolls, and tasty dipping sauces
Pho Ga: Vietnamese beef noodle soup, sliced white meat chicken, topped with scallion, onion, and cilantro. Served with bean sprouts, fresh basil, lime, and jalapeno peppers $7.95
Generous portions, lots of noodles and tender chicken
Roasted Duck: Half roasted duck served with steamed vegetabels, steamed rice, and duck sauce. $14.95
The duck was moist, tender, and cleaved into small pieces, the veggies were colorful and steamed to crispy perfection

We complemented our meals with a Vietnamese beer (Saigon) which was light and tasty. Selections of beer and wine are adequate but limited.

SRQ Reviews, the restaurant guide you need to find the best dining in Sarasota, Florida.

Insider Tips Looking for even more value?  Bring your own bottle of wine, Pho Cali charges a $7 corkage fee.

Categories: Asian, Vietnamese
Styles: BYOB, Casual, Frugal Dining, Lunch, Zone - Downtown

URL: http://www.phocalisarasota.com

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