TMI… Around that time of the month, I crave Chinese takeout, Pho, or a Vermicelli bowl. Almost any asian flavors really hit the spot. The last few times, I’ve leaned towards the Vermicelli bowl. I love going to Pho Huang Lan for pho because of their portion sizes. In that they have baby sizes, which is perfect for me. I’m not sure they have vermicelli bowls. Maybe I didn’t look hard enough. The Fifth District did, so I had to give it a try.
The Parking: The Fifth District is located in a large complex, with plenty of parking. It’s actually in the same lot as my go-to Chinese takeout, Hai San. There is never any trouble finding parking – unless you are trying to get right up front. And even then, it’s not an issue.
The Atmosphere: A simple, no-frills spot. You go straight up to the register to place your order and grab a number if you’re dining in. And pick whichever available spot in the restaurant. It’s not a huge space, but plenty of room. I’ve been when it’s full and light, and I’ve never seen someone having to wait for a seat, as things move rather quickly.
The Food: At this point, I’ve had both their pho and vermicelli bowls. Both are solid options. Unlike Pho Huang Lan, it is just one size, so the pho is usually way too much for me to finish. However, it is just as delicious.
If you are unfamiliar with a vermicelli bowl, it is a large bowl of vermicelli noodles, topped with lettuce, cucumber, bean sprouts, basil, pickled carrot and daikon, peanuts, your choice of protein, and a side of a fish sauce mixture to pour over and mix. The bowl of my dreams really.
I do find myself a bit confusing, though. When it comes to pho, I usually have as much of the broth as I can and barely touch the noodz. However… With the vermicelli bowl… I eat it all up. Mind you, there is no broth to get filled up on. But I go ham on the noodles. I’m getting hungry as I type this…
Every time, I’ve ordered the grilled pork and egg roll option. If pork is an option, that is what I end up going with. I find it juicier and tastier. My backup option is chicken, but I haven’t tried that here. Yet, I’m sure it’s just as delicious. I love adding the eggroll for an extra crunch and added texture. I love the layers of flavor and texture. The freshness and acidity from the veggies and sauce. The tender meat. And it all gets soaked up in the noodz. All the right elements, creating an absolute delight.
I really do love Vietnamese food, cause another favorite of mine is a Banh Mi. I do believe I’ve ordered one or two from here. I honestly don’t have too much of a recall of how I enjoyed it. I want to say they were good, nothing extra special. I’ve also tried the boba tea once or twice, and again, decent, but always a tad too sweet for me. Which is not uncommon, more a personal preference.
How many times can a gal say vermicelli bowl?? The Fifth Element does it right though. I haven’t been mad at anything I’ve gotten here. There are a few other things I’d like to try off the menu, although it’s hard to stray away from these tried-and-true options. If you are in the area or having a craving, I highly recommend it!
Rating: 9.2/10
Address: 11127 W Colonial Dr, Ocoee, FL 34761
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