Forget that New Saigon is always decked out in some sort of Christmas garb, even in the midst of summer. The restaurant is clearly more concerned with the execution of its Vietnamese dishes than redecorating its kitschy walls.

Nobody here seems to mind, either, although it's difficult to read their expressions when their faces are hidden by large bowls of pho. Part of the restaurant's appeal is in its low prices; most of the meals here skirt the $5 range and the portions are double what you'd expect, given the cost.

Aside from its signature pho dishes, New Saigon offers a variety of rice and noodle soups and stir-fry meat and seafood entrees. A small selection of appetizers makes room for egg rolls and spring rolls, stuffed with your choice of shrimp or pork. The spring rolls tend to lack flavor, but the complimentary side of sweet peanut sauce makes up for that.

The beverage list includes a variety of coffees, soft drinks and exotic shakes. New Saigon is BYOB.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Stacy Warden