Diners are quickly discovering the merits of Vietnam’s signature soup, along with other specialties, at Kooma Modern Asian.
The pho—its aromatic broth laden with rice noodles—affords a list of options (eye of round, meatballs, tendon, tripe) and accompaniments like bean sprouts, cilantro, hoisin and chili sauce. Add jalapeños and chili sauce for a spicy powerhouse, or shake in hoisin for a sweet-and-savory alternative.
Other menu standouts include the rock-shrimp appetizer- (crisp butterflied shrimp in a sweet-and-spicy sauce) and the Korean barbecue (tender marinated short ribs, beef, pork or chicken served with lettuce and a robust house-made kimchi slaw). The menu touts Vietnamese specials like broken rice (with pork, beef or shrimp) and vermicelli noodle bowls, plus such Asian-fusion staples as dumplings, stir-fries, and a stellar salt-and-pepper shrimp.
Kooma’s latest outpost also has a knack for cocktails. The lychee martini (Absolut Pears, elderflower liqueur and lychee) and the cucumber saketini (Crop cucumber vodka and sake) ought to please fans of fruity and herbaceous concoctions. And whether you’re eating, drinking or both, the knowledgeable waitstaff is happy to make suggestions. 123 N. Church St., West Chester, www.koomaviet.com, (610) 430-8980.
