Nam-Viet

Finding good pho in Washington is tough—the real Vietnamese vote in Virginia. Exception-to-the-rule ethnic joint wins devoted city-wide following with authenticity, fresh Asian flavors, awesome service. Red paper lanterns, basil green signage, appetizing light yellow walls, Made-in-China décor, tightly-packed tables. Generic, cheap exterior doesn't match well-coiffed, professional clientele who bring friends, dates, business associates to "this place they know in Cleveland Park." Feast on spring rolls, incredible stir-fry, mammoth bowls of noodles. Your breath smells like lemongrass.