An Restaurant in Bankstown is often cited as serving one of Sydney’s best phở. Having finally made it to Bankstown after many years for unrelated reasons, it felt necessary—if only in the name of ‘research’—to sample their phở, despite having already established a firm favourite at 3Q Quây Quần Quán in Cabramatta.
The venue occupies an expansive footprint with seating reminiscent of a food court. Service is minimal and efficient: a staff member approaches and asks for one’s order directly, without menus—printed or digital—being offered. It is assumed that diners are familiar with both the menu and the pricing. Signage is prominent and unambiguous: cash only, with payment taken at the table. The atmosphere is loud and busy, though noticeably cleaner than a typical food court, and food is delivered to the table.
Phở with Rare Beef ($20.00 + $2.00 for large, +$1.00 for meat on the side)
A sweet, southern-style phở. The noodles were soft and silky, with the additional beef served on the side being a worthwhile upgrade. The portion of meat was generous, though it lacked the tenderness found at 3Q. The broth was clean and comforting—sweet and savoury—but lacked the herbaceous complexity and spiced depth that defines truly outstanding phở. Unlike at 3Q, the noodles here did not absorb or carry the broth’s flavour in any meaningful way.
As a noodle soup, it was certainly better than many offerings elsewhere (notably superior to An Viet), and provided a satisfying experience on a rainy day. However, it did not rise to the level of a phở one would go out of their way to recommend, nor justify the reputation as a destination venue—particularly given the impersonal, food court-like environment.
An Restuarant is located at 27 Greenfield Pde, Bankstown NSW 2200.