Phở Tái (Rare Beef Pho) is the signature dish that has defined Bolsa Restaurant's reputation in southeast Calgary since July 2005. The foundation of every bowl is our rich, clear bone broth, crafted by slow-simmering beef bones with charred ginger, onion, star anise, cinnamon, and warming spices for eight or more hours. The result is a deeply flavourful, aromatic broth that is both light and satisfying — a hallmark of truly authentic Vietnamese pho.
Each serving of Phở Tái is assembled to order: a bed of silky bánh phở rice noodles, a generous portion of thinly sliced raw beef that gently cooks to medium-rare in the steaming hot broth, and a fresh side platter of bean sprouts, Thai basil, jalapeño slices, and lime wedges. Squeeze, tear, and add as you like — this is Vietnamese pho as it is meant to be enjoyed, and it is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed family dinner near Macleod Trail, Calgary.
The Craft Behind Bolsa's Pho Broth
The quality of Phở Tái begins and ends with the broth. At Bolsa Restaurant, our kitchen prepares fresh broth every day using traditional Vietnamese techniques. Beef marrow bones are blanched, rinsed, then simmered low and slow with aromatics charred over an open flame — a step that gives the broth its characteristic depth and subtle sweetness. The broth is carefully strained, skimmed, and seasoned with fish sauce and a touch of rock sugar for balance. The result speaks for itself.
How to Enjoy Your Phở Tái
Part of what makes pho culture so inviting is the ability to make each bowl your own. At Bolsa Restaurant, your Phở Tái arrives with a garnish platter — squeeze lime for brightness, tear in Thai basil for fragrance, add bean sprouts for crunch, and drop in jalapeño for heat. A side of hoisin or sriracha rounds out the experience. Our team is always happy to guide first-time guests through the full pho ritual.
A Southeast Calgary Institution Since 2005
Bolsa Restaurant has served the Acadia, Haysboro, Willow Park, Lake Bonavista, and surrounding southeast Calgary communities since July 2005. Located conveniently in Macleod Plaza on 94 Ave SE — with ample parking — we are the neighbourhood go-to for authentic Vietnamese pho. Fully licensed and family-friendly, Bolsa is the perfect spot for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
