Trung Nam bakery now serving pho ($4.99 through tomorrow)

[Ms. Fennelbulb]

I happened to notice a "grand opening" banner today on Trung Nam French Bakery's chain link fence. So, I had to do an u-turn to find out! I learned that they had started serving pho about a month ago and the grand opening price of $4.99 continues through tomorrow (Saturday). I had an ox tail pho (which was not a part of the opening sale; $7.99) that was delightful. The broth was just a bit oily but clear, fresh-tasting and not over-salted. It had a subtle but distinct scent and taste of star anise. It came with 2 large and 2 small pieces of ox tail. I don't know their old hours, but a very friendly and attentive young female server made sure I knew that they are open til midnight every night except Sundays when the shop is closed.

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Trung Nam French Bakery
739 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104

[docfood]

Based on the suggestion for the oxtail soup, I just had lunch at Trung Nam. Wow it was wonderful. Rich, beefy, dense flavor with delicious oxtails. Yummy. I also was able to purchase a loaf of New Orleans style french bread for home.

This old creole woman is gonna have herself a po-boy later today. Hmmm, Shrimp or oyster?

Thanks for the recommendation. Got to love the chowhounds.

[diesel]

As if this is not good enough, according to their Facebook page, Trung Nam is also open until midnight now! Eek! St. Paul late night dining scene is on the up and up!

[Fudist]

The Oxtail Pho is on par with the best I have had and at $7.99 it is a steal and easily serves 2. The Banh Mi is also the best IMO.

[japanabanana]

Stopped by for lunch today. Pho isn't served until 1pm.

[spahkee]

If anyone gets there and can score a copy of their menu, would it be ok to post it? If I get there in the next week, I'll try to do that.

[shoo bee doo]

I've just become addicted to their palmiers. Crispy, buttery cookies. I think you need to get them in the very early morning because they run out. I have a couple along with a bahn mi for breakfast on the way to work.

[spahkee]

Thanks for sharing. I'm going to have to check it out. Did they serve other dishes besides pho - bun noodle salad, cha gio spring rolls or other foods?

[Ms. Fennelbulb]

I failed as a Chowhound! When I walked in, I saw a white board on an easel next to the counter that listed only "traditional pho," ox tail pho and bubble tea flavors. I was so happy to see ox tail pho that I told the server that was what I wanted and sat down. I overheard her mention a menu to other customers. So, perhaps they serve bun and other dishes. Half a dozen or so other customers were all eating either pho or bahn mi.

[The Dairy Queen]

Not a failure, no way! If we all keep adding layers of info, we'll get there.

I know they've been working on the new menu for a long time. Thank you for reporting on it!

~TDQ

[AnneInMpls]

Wow - this is great news. Thanks!