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The Inspiring Journey of Pho Quang Trung
In 1978, Hoa Quan and his family embarked on a perilous journey, escaping a communist regime in Vietnam by boat. They faced treacherous conditions as they sought refuge, eventually being given the choice to settle in Canada, France, Australia, or America. Without hesitation, Hoa chose America, and with sponsorship from his beloved uncle, it became a turning point for his family.
Throughout his arduous journey, Hoa never lost his passion for cooking pho. Holding onto the recipe taught at the renowned Pho Hang Than Restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam, he mastered the art of creating flavorful beef and chicken broths. In 1986, with his unwavering dedication and two friends by his side, Hoa opened Pho Nguyen Hue in Little Saigon, Westminster, California. The small area soon became a landmark, with customers lining up from morning till night to savor a bowl of his pho. Hoa's commitment was unwavering, as he personally made each bowl, and his efforts paid off when even former South Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyễn Cao Kỳ visited his restaurant.
Hoa's desire to share his success led him to teach his younger brothers the art of cooking pho. Their restaurant, Pho Kim Long, became one of the most famous and long-standing pho establishments in San Jose, California. After 18 years at Pho Nguyen Hue, Hoa decided to expand his passion by opening Pho Quang Trung Restaurants, together with his wife. They introduced traditional family-style dishes of Northern Vietnam to Orange County, serving authentic, high-quality Vietnamese cuisine. With over 35 years of experience, Hoa's passion for cooking remains undiminished even at the age of 70.
Pho Quang Trung is renowned for its exceptional Pho Ga (free-range chicken) and Pho Bo (beef) in Orange County. What sets them apart is the extensive customization options available to customers. From various cuts of chicken to a wide array of beef choices, including traditional flanks, tenderloin, and beef balls, Pho Quang Trung caters to individual preferences. The broths are simmered for over 12 hours daily, extracting rich flavors and textures from the marrow-rich bones, enhanced with healthy herbs and spices.
Not only specializing in pho, Pho Quang Trung offers a diverse range of Northern Vietnamese traditional family meals. From Bun Cha Hanoi (grilled pork in dipping sauce) to Cha Ca Thang Long (lightly fried turmeric-flavored catfish), their menu showcases the authentic flavors of Vietnam. One must-try dish is the Bún Chả Hanoi, which gained popularity after former President Obama's visit to Vietnam. Customers can savor the succulent grilled pork patties, combined with vermicelli noodles and vegetables. With options to enjoy it wrapped in lettuce or mixed together, Pho Quang Trung proudly claims to serve the best Bún Chả in town.
With a menu featuring many more authentic Vietnamese dishes, Pho Quang Trung has earned a stellar reputation among Orange County residents and visitors from around the world. Tourists from Australia, Germany, France, and Canada speak highly of the restaurant's commitment to serving genuine Vietnamese cuisine.