In recent days, a small pho restaurant located on Bao Khanh Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem district has gained attention for its unique form of charity: “pho treo” (hanging pho). This heartwarming initiative quickly spread, bringing the restaurant fame and special attention from the public. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, a city often associated with a fast-paced lifestyle, lies a heartwarming tradition of kindness and generosity.
Pho “Treo” and the Spirit of Sharing in Hanoi’s Heart
Pho Treo, initiated by the couple Phan Le, aims to share quality meals with the less fortunate, the working poor, and those facing challenges in the city. Inspired by the “suspended coffee” movement in Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic and similar “com treo” (hanging rice) initiatives in Ho Chi Minh City, over a month ago, Ms. Nguyen Thi Cat Le and her family decided to implement this model in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Currently, the restaurant hangs 30 bowls of pho daily for charity, with the remaining bowls available for customers to purchase and hang. Customers can start hanging from bowl 31 onwards. Any remaining “hung” bowls from the previous day will be carried over to the next day.
Many passersby have been intrigued by the sign advertising “pho treo” outside the restaurant. Additionally, videos shared on social media by content creators have further drawn attention to the restaurant. People are visiting not only to enjoy the food but also to hang pho. As a result, the number of “hung” pho bowls has multiplied, providing free meals to more working poor and those in need.
The “pho treo” restaurant amplifies acts of kindness.
Since starting the “pho treo” initiative, Ms. Le has never actively urged customers to hang pho in the restaurant. Due to sensitive reasons, she chooses not to verbally promote the concept but instead conveys the message through notes displayed in the restaurant. “This is a form of charity where you can leave a meal for those who are less fortunate in the community while still supporting local eateries,” one of the notes reads. Elaborating on this, Ms. Le shared, “Customers can pre-pay for a meal to invite someone who cannot afford it to enjoy a decent meal. In this way, the giver avoids the perception of “showing off” while still feeling generous, and the receiver doesn’t have to “lower their head” to receive the help. What remains are the positive energies in life and the beautiful values we leave for each other.“
Pho “Treo” Brings Smiles
Every day, the “pho treo” restaurant on Bao Khanh Street in Hanoi sets aside approximately 30 bowls of pho for those in need. Each person can receive up to two bowls, depending on their needs. While there have been many articles introducing this meaningful charitable act, witnessing it firsthand allows one to truly appreciate the kindness and sincere sharing of the restaurant owner and staff.
In the early morning, when Bao Khanh Street is still quiet, the “pho treo” restaurant comes to life. Bowls of steaming pho are hung, awaiting special guests. This scene not only brings joy and warmth to the recipients but also touches the hearts of those who witness it. For the working poor, this free meal not only fills their stomachs but also provides much-needed encouragement in their challenging lives.
However, not everyone feels comfortable walking into the restaurant to receive the charitable meal. Some approach with hesitant eyes and tentative steps, standing at a distance, unsure if they should voice their request. We have witnessed many such situations, but Ms. Le is always attentive to these hesitant gazes. A gentle wave from her is often all it takes for these hesitant steps to venture into the restaurant to receive a bowl of pho filled with kindness.
For the working poor and those facing challenges, a hot bowl of pho may seem like a distant dream. However, the “pho treo” restaurant on Bao Khanh Street has become a meaningful pit stop. These bowls of pho not only provide a delicious meal but also bring warmth to those navigating the hectic pace of city life.
Attracting Patrons with Kindness and Delicious Flavors
The restaurant has been around for almost 40 years, and before gaining widespread recognition for “pho treo,” it was already a popular destination for locals and foreigners alike.
Pho Treo is not a luxurious restaurant but a small, humble eatery that embodies the essence of Vietnam. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with fans providing a cool breeze. While the space is somewhat cramped, it captures the spirit of a restaurant in the Old Quarter, with furniture arranged in a cozy and familiar manner. The owner and staff are always enthusiastic and friendly, making everyone feel welcomed like old friends.
Tuệ An is renowned for its traditional pho. The broth is made by simmering beef bones for a long time, resulting in a naturally sweet and savory flavor without any bitterness. The restaurant offers various options for pho bo (beef pho), including rare, well-done, tendon, and brisket. The beef is tender, thinly sliced, and blanched to perfection, maintaining a delicate balance between softness and chewiness. The rice noodles are soft yet retain a pleasant chew, allowing diners to appreciate the freshness of the ingredients. To enhance the experience, patrons can add a dash of garlic vinegar and spicy chili sauce made in-house, along with crispy fried dough sticks.
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