Menu of Pho Basil in Mid West, Houston, TX, USA

Menu Overview

Pho Basil, nestled on S Gessner Rd in Houston, offers a vibrant and authentic Vietnamese dining experience that truly stands out. The menu reflects a thoughtful blend of traditional dishes and modern twists, ensuring something delightful for every palate.

Starting with their signature Bubble Tea, Pho Basil elevates this popular drink with fresh ingredients and balanced sweetness, making it a perfect companion to their robust flavors. The Crab Rangoon and Crispy Shrimp Rolls are standout appetizers—crispy, savory, and perfectly seasoned, setting a high bar before the main courses even arrive.

The Bánh Mì at Pho Basil deserves special mention. It captures the essence of classic Vietnamese sandwiches with fresh herbs, tender meats, and a delightful crunch from the baguette. It’s a perfect handheld treat that marries texture and flavor harmoniously.

For those craving heartier fare, the Bò Lúc Lắc or "Shaking Beef" offers tender, flavorful filet mignon chunks served with fragrant fried rice, showcasing balance between the savory beef and the fluffy jasmine rice laced with Chinese sausage, egg, and vegetables. The rice plates provide generous servings with outstanding aromas and textures—especially the Special Fried Rice which is both comforting and richly flavored.

Pho Basil’s rice vermicelli bowls impress with freshness and complexity. The Combination Vermicelli Bowl, loaded with grilled chicken, pork, beef, and shrimp, bursts with layered char flavors and vibrant vegetables. The Stir-Fried Beef Lemongrass Vermicelli highlights the perfect marriage of marinated beef infused with lemongrass and the crispness of fresh herbs topped with crushed peanuts and fried shallots, creating a satisfying mouthfeel.

Their House Specials like the Shaken Salmon, sautéed with bell peppers and broccoli in a signature sauce, offer a lighter yet equally compelling option. Meanwhile, the Spicy Ox Tail Noodle Soup is a rich, slow-cooked delight that delivers deep, hearty flavors balanced by fresh onion and cilantro—ideal for those wanting a soulful bowl of Pho beyond the standard cuts.

Customers consistently praise the authenticity and care in the pho itself—the broth is clear yet deeply savory, with options to tailor heat levels via chili oil or hot sauce, allowing each bowl to suit individual tastes. The inclusion of ingredients like white tripe adds to the authenticity, though diners are well-advised to know their preferences.

The dining environment complements the menu with its lush, plant-filled decor creating a welcoming and calming atmosphere. Service experiences may vary, but the genuine hospitality shines through, as does the thoughtful touch of complimentary treats like coconut desserts or flan, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Pho Basil offers a balanced, delectable journey into Vietnamese cuisine that delights with its robust flavors and comforting dishes, from appetizers to noodle bowls and rice plates. It’s a must-visit for those seeking both authenticity and variety at a reasonable price point in Houston.