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Pho DeliB+Worth Trying

Name: Pho Deli
Address: 247 Goswell Rd., London EC1V 7JD, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

247 Goswell Rd., London EC1V 7JD · Vietnamese restaurant, Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (89 reviews)

Takeout

Cozy, one-man-run Vietnamese spot serving hearty pho and good banh mi at fair prices; expect occasional waits and mixed broth opinions.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Pho Deli delivers dependable Vietnamese comfort through strong food quality with generous portions and fragrant broth, supported by warm, attentive service from the owner-chef. However, occasional consistency issues with broth depth and meat tenderness, combined with tight seating during peak hours, prevent it from reaching higher territory. Fair pricing and homestyle charm make it a solid neighborhood choice for pho lovers, though not a citywide destination.

Restaurant Summary

A tiny spot on Goswell Road where the aroma of simmering broth greets you at the door, Pho Deli feels warm and cozy rather than flashy. Service comes with a smile from the owner-chef himself, and diners describe bowls that arrive fast when quiet and slower during rush. One regular summed it up: "He cooks with love and the bowls are generous," capturing the venue’s homestyle charm. The cooking leans traditional Vietnamese with hearty, produce-forward bowls: brisket and chicken pho, spicy Hue-style noodles, banh mi, and spring rolls. Most praise the light, fragrant broth and sizable portions, while a small minority find the beef chewy or the broth too mild. Prices fit the casual setting, making this a dependable stop for simple, satisfying comfort. For families, the menu has kid-friendly options like chicken pho, plain noodles, and rice dishes. Reviews include happy young diners, though there is no kids menu. Portions are big, flavors are approachable, and tofu or chicken swaps help picky eaters, so it is a solid family pick if you can handle a short wait at busy times.

At a Glance

Generous pho portions and fair prices
Friendly owner-chef running a cozy space
Vegan pho and tofu options available
Service slows at peak due to one-person kitchen
Mixed feedback on broth depth and beef tenderness

What Sets It Apart

owner_cooked_homestyle_broth
large_pho_portions
strong_vegan_pho_option

What People Love

Light, aromatic pho broth that still satisfies
Big bowls that feel like value
Welcoming owner who cooks and serves
Reliable vegan options in a cuisine that can be meat-heavy
Simple menu that makes choosing easy

Points of Concern

During lunch rush, expect 10-20 minute waits as one person cooks and serves
A minority report bland broth or chewy brisket; seasoning varies by visit
Small room can feel cramped and not ideal for large groups
Review patterns show honest variety; isolated safety claims exist without multiple confirmations

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£18-26 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Choose pho or Hue noodles for best value and portion size
Vegan diners: go for Vegan Pho or tofu options
If sensitive to spice, start with chicken pho and add chilli at the table

Perfect For

A quick, comforting lunch near Angel/Clerkenwell
Solo noodle cravings with minimal fuss
Casual meetups that prioritize flavor over decor
Takeaway pho to warm up a chilly day

Location Insights

Area: Mixed commercial and residential corridor between Clerkenwell and Angel; daytime office crowd and local residents.

Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; well-lit main road environment.

Nearby: Near City University, offices, cafes, and Upper Street dining; handy for quick lunches and casual dinners.

ClerkenwellClerkenwell offers a dynamic dining scene with a variety of trendy cafes, gastropubs, and upscale restaurants. The area is popular for lunch and after-work dining, attracting a crowd that appreciates innovative cuisine and a lively yet relaxed social atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–21:00 Wednesday12:00–21:00 Thursday12:00–21:00 Friday12:00–21:00 Saturday12:00–21:00 Sunday

Available: Takeout

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