The versatility of tofu

Ask most vegetarians what a common staple of their diet is, and tofu is at the top of the list. Featuring three delicious soy-infused selections, Pho My Lien, a local Aiea eatery, brings good times — and good tastes — to the table this week.

Walter James, Pho My Lien’s financial advisor, shares how the restaurant seeks to support both healthy fare and local farmers, stating that, “Pho My Lien brings everything in fresh daily from a local Chinatown grocer,” who James explains has had a long and trusted relationship with the eatery over its years in operation.

For those with a little more adventurous tastes, you can spice things up with Hot Spicy Lemon-grass Stir-Fried ($8.50), a dish that tempts the palate with an aromatic gathering of tofu, onion, lemongrass special sauce and garlic.

“I can’t tell you what exactly is in the sauce,” grins James, “because then I’d have to kill you!” And though he jests, James is right to vow silence, as one taste of this selection has vegetarians understanding just why he’d want to keep that special secret recipe under wraps — it’s just too good to not want to steal!

And although patrons flock in droves to Pho My Lien for the taste of the cuisine served here, James also knows that it’s the fair prices that create such an appeal. “We haven’t raised our prices in the entire five years we have been at this location,” he says, adding that the monthly specials (each at around $4.99) provide unmatched value as well.

“I tell people there are three basic things to remember about Pho My Lien: simple, delicious and affordable,” pronounces James.

Pho My Lien

Westridge Shopping Center
98-150 Kaonohi St., Ste. B213-B, Aiea
488-4900
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 8 p.m. on Sunday

NOTES
Takeout orders are welcomed, and customers are encouraged to inquire about catering options and hosting large gatherings (please provide at least four days’ notice for groups up to 40 people), including holiday parties.