Chalmette now has a new place to warm up over a steaming bowl of pho. Pho Parish, a family-run Vietnamese kitchen, has opened its doors and is serving classic pho alongside banh mi, steamed buns and other Vietnamese staples. The compact dining room holds roughly 54 seats for dine-in service, and the owners let guests bring their own beer or wine. In the kitchen, chef Nhat Nguyen leans on long-simmered broths scented with star anise, cinnamon and ginger, and the spot is operating for lunch and dinner most days of the week.
Speaking with Gambit, Nguyen walked through a resume that includes time at Tamarind by Dominique and with Mike Gulotta at Mopho. He grew up in New Orleans East and studied culinary arts at Delgado Community College before teaming up with partner Chris Lai to open Pho Parish.
Menu and hours
The menu stretches from classic beef, brisket and chicken pho to banh mi and rice plates, with the restaurant posting its full lineup and hours online. According to Pho Parish’s website, the shop is open Wednesday through Monday for lunch and dinner and lists a contact number of (504) 264-7333 for carryout or questions.
Broth, parish sauce and technique
The broth leans on star anise, cinnamon and ginger, and the owners say a house “parish sauce” made with braised pork, fish sauce, caramelized sugar and coconut water brightens several dishes. Nguyen told Gambit that he “bring[s] the broth to a rolling boil before you simmer it,” a hands-on step he says clarifies the stock.
Neighborhood reaction and ordering
Early reaction online has been positive, with local map listings and reviews showing several high ratings. Diners who prefer to stay home can still get their fix, since the restaurant is available for delivery or pickup through services like DoorDash, and local listings on MapQuest reflect the initial buzz from guests…