After a successful trip to Canada, we returned to the U.S. and decided to get a hotel in Everett, Washington. I had never been to the area before, but I'd definitely go back. It's about 25 miles north of Seattle and has just about everything one needs in the area.
I was craving pho and banh mi after the drive, and a quick search led me to Basil Authentic.
It was of course busy on a Saturday evening, but we got a table close to the counter. Very traditional Vietnamese menu, including pho, banh mi, vermicelli noodle dishes, and rice dishes.
To cater more to Mom's semi-vegetarian lifestyle, we split the #18 vegetarian pho ($14.50 regular size) - which included tofu, broccoli, and carrots - but asked for beef broth instead, then added meatballs for $3.50 more.
As always, a free side of sprouts, Thai basil, jalapeños, and lemon (hidden in the picture).
If you want a "healthier" pho but want to retain max flavor and a bit of gluttony, this is probably the compromise. The broth is the true test of a good pho, and this one was outstanding. Lots of flavor. Veggies were perfectly cooked, delicious meatballs, and a bunch of noodles.
Next up was the #32 Grilled Pork Banh Mi ($8.99), a fat sandwich of grilled pork, pickled carrots/daikon, cucumber, jalapeño, and cilantro inside a baguette. Since I've been so used to Hawaii prices, this felt like a mega steal for $9. Packed with goodies. Crunchy bread, yet not overly hard. Yet another flavor-packed experience that left me wanting more.
Great service, although it was faster for me to pay for my meal at the register, instead of waiting for the check.
I almost needed to get rolled out of the restaurant back to the car, but it was worth it. Even if we stayed closer to Seattle, Basil Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine would be worth the drive for this meal. I was still thinking about the meal several weeks after I got home. 9.25/10
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