Las Vegas-based food reviewer Keith Lee, boasting more than 17 million followers on TikTok, has delivered a glowing endorsement to a Toronto Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Ngoc Yen, located on Adelaide Street. During a brief 24-hour visit to the city for what he described as "a life-changing shoot," Lee sampled the beef short rib pho and fresh juices, rating the meal an impressive 9.4 out of 10.
High Praise for Toronto's Culinary Scene
In his review, Lee expressed admiration for Toronto, stating, "I've always said Toronto has got some of the best restaurants, some of the nicest people and some of the prettiest atmospheres and this is exactly that." He highlighted the dish's spiciness, freshness, and rich lemongrass flavor, exclaiming, "This might be the best pho I've ever had in my life."
The Keith Lee Effect on Local Businesses
Known as the "Keith Lee Effect," his visits often lead to a surge in demand for the featured establishments. Previous reviews in the Toronto area have resulted in doubled wait times at a shawarma shop and temporary closures at a bakery to manage crowds. Lee's latest endorsement is expected to similarly boost Pho Ngoc Yen's popularity.
This isn't the first time the restaurant has garnered celebrity attention; over the summer, American R&B singer Kehlani also praised it as the best Vietnamese food she's ever had, sharing her experience with millions of followers on TikTok.
