Tag: soup

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Pho Ga

Pho Ga from Pho Dakao on Park Avenue in Worcester, MA

I will say there is no type of food that I love more than Vietnamese.

I have been to Pho Dakao several times, each time I enjoy it more and more. I am very partial, or dare I say addicted to a particular Vietnamese Restaurant not in Worcester so it is very hard for me to compare.

However, you really can never go wrong with Pho soup, and of all the places I have tired, I would say Pho Dakao rates in my top three.

This traditional Vietnamese soup is a comfort food on a whole other level. The only type of Pho I order is the Pho Ga – chicken noodle soup (no cilantro). The soup always comes with rice noodles, shredded chicken, and a plate of garnishes that include Thai basil, lime, hot peppers, and bean sprouts. I use as much Thai basil as I can, (sometimes you must share) a little lime, a touch of sriracha and some hoisin sauce. Note the soup really does not need anything added.

The flavors of the broth are hard to describe – it is just so unique, so delicious, it will leave you craving more.

Some of the spices that go into this delectable masterpiece include cinnamon, ginger, fennel seeds, clove, coriander seed, and star anise. If you have not ever tired Pho, I urge you, please do.

It is really a given that I will be back to Pho Dakao and I hope you may be inspired to try some unique delicious Vietnamese food, and Pho is not the only delicious thing on the menu. Trust me, you will go back.

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Grilled Swordfish

Grilled Swordfish from Le Mirage on June Street in Worcester, MA

Grilled Swordfish from Le Mirage on June Street in Worcester, MA

Le Mirage is a place that I have been interested in trying. The small corner restaurant that happens to be a BYOB (I love a BYOB restaurant, certain I have said that before) was decorated invitingly and had a very welcoming atmosphere; someone even opened and greeted me at the door when I first arrived.

The service was impeccable; from the door opening to the overall sincerity and attentiveness.

I started with the Tuscan sausage soup – this is a must try since my mom makes the best sausage soup ever. The soup had a nice broth with a hint of spice. I enjoyed the amount of sausage and the vegetables, tasted very homemade. For my meal I ordered the grilled swordfish; blackened with rice pilaf and the vegetable (butternut squash).

The swordfish was good; though the seasoning was a little too salty for my liking. The rice and the vegetable were substantial portions; both were great, especially the butternut squash.  I did try some hummus compliments of a neighbor and that was very good—perhaps during my next visit.

I will try Le Mirage again as I did see some great options on the menu.  -LB