A Hidden Vietnamese Gem in Frederick Maryland

Finding an amazing restaurant that offers not only great food, but also a cozy and inviting atmosphere can be hard to come by. Pho 52 on Motter Avenue in Frederick Maryland offers that and so much more! Pho 52 is a hidden gem Vietnamese restaurant tucked back in a small shopping center. Their menu is large, and the positive online reviews speak volumes! From the deliciously warm and comforting Pho Noodle Soup, to sandwiches, Pho 52 has it all! Their food is just as described on their sign, authentic.

History of Pho 52

Pho 52 was opened only two short years ago in early fall of 2023. The owner, Thi “Tina” Truong, originally from Saigon Vietnam, moved here to the States a little over nine years ago to create a better life her her and her daughter (DC News Now). Thi’s dream of opening her own restaurant came to life, and her business is thriving (DC News Now)!

Saigon Vietnam

Saigon Vietnam, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is known as the “economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region” (Vietnam Timeless Charm). The city offers a variety of popular dishes including cóm tãm (broken rice) which is their most common breakfast dish (Vietnam Timeless Charm). Summertime spring rolls and bánh mì (a Vietnamese twist on the classic sub) are both signature Ho Chi Minh City items that Thi serves at her restaurant in Frederick!

The Menu

Pho 52’s menu offers the most authentically delicious dishes, cooked with care and expertise by Thi and her team. They are obviously known for having great Pho, but they have a little something for everyone’s palate. Personally, I absolutely love getting the Bún. Bún is a fresh bowl of Vermicelli rice noodles, with your choice of lemongrass grilled protein, along with cucumbers, lettuce, bean sprouts, scallions, and their addictive house-made fish sauce. Their famous pho is prepared with either beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, your choice of protein, and your choice of freshly prepared vegetable toppings. If noodle dishes or meat are not your thing, don’t worry! Pho 52 also offers subs, vegetarian option and mouth-watering rice dishes.

Bún Bò Núóng (Grilled Beef). My personal favorite!

The Atmosphere

Don’t just order take out from Pho 52, go in and grab a seat! Their staff is so incredibly friendly and grateful for business. It’s wonderful to learn firsthand about the history of the restaurant and Thi’s journey to becoming a business owner. The environment inside of the restaurant is relaxed and welcoming. The beautiful wallpaper truly makes you feel like you are sitting at a table in Ho Chi Minh City!

If you are in the Frederick Maryland area and want to try some of the most delicious Vietnamese food from a hard-working woman, definitely give Pho 52 a try!

Helpful Links:

https://www.pho52frederick.com.

 https://www.dcnewsnow.com/news/local-news/maryland/frederick-county-md/woman-opens-vietnamese-restaurant-while-in-pursuit-of-american-citizenship/.

https://vietnam.travel/things-to-do/eating-local-hcmc.

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