Hello….and welcome.
I've noticed a growing trend of people using this platform: Substack. And I thought - hey why not give it a go myself. My thinking is this could be a great way to channel/blog all those creative adhd- thoughts, that constantly flood my brain.
From the million and one business ideas, to random thoughts, musings and ramblings in the food and beverage industry. Or not…it could be completely random….day to day, week to week life observations.
I would also love to do a weekly round up of something I have cooked or have really enjoyed eating…or for that matter something I have enjoyed doing or experienced.
(Insert frequency here) I will aim for a weekly newsletter…lets see how I get on…perhaps fortnightly is more achievable…. : _ )
Welcome to Ciao Sam.
Something I have been eating a lot of: I love phở.
Vietnamese soup is something I have been eating a lot of lately here in Melbourne. Having lived in London for quite some time, one thing I really missed was a really good bowl of broth and noodles. Not to say you can’t achieve that order in London (I personally never found a good bowl of phở there. It always (for me) lacked a depth of flavour in the broth or was just to heavy on the msg, - but it’s really another level here in Melbourne - I frequent this shop at least weekly. My go to order is: chicken broth with veg and tofu. Sometimes I add chicken to this hot glistening bowl of goodness. Other times I just order straight up Phở Ga (Chicken). There are a few other shops on the same strip but I have been coming here for as long as I can remember and it’s still just as good. The other main point: It is run by a super lovely and very friendly family….genuine hospitality and super chill.
I love the full flavour on the broth it’s not as sweet as some of the neighbouring establishments with so much fragrance (think sweet spice tones with deep savoury notes for those who have never eaten it). I also really love the canteen dining experience: bowls of hot broth and noodles are pushed gently around on a trolley and dispensed carefully onto your table where a smaller platter is also delivered: some fresh bean sprouts, freshly cut chilli (very hot and fragrant), lemon and Vietnamese basil to season your soup with. There is also a variety of condiments on the table. Reach for the cutlery and spoon that first mouthful of aromatic broth….…heaven. Soothing and so restorative, why is hot broth from any cuisine just so comforting and reviving? I will have to get to Vietnam asap.
If you happen to visit Melbourne or live here: I love Phở: 264 Victoria St, Richmond VIC 3121
<8 Thanks for reading big love - more to come soon…did I say in a week? Stay tuned. (hit subscribe for this news to be delivered into your inbox) <8
Very, very evocative musings Sam! Keep it up…can’t wait for the next instalment. XAK