Pho Café
2001This Vietnamese restaurant, located at 2841 Sunset Boulevard in Silver Lake, is wedged between two retail spaces in a typical mini strip-mall. The layout is a long galley kitchen clad in stainless steel open to a parallel space of the dining area lined with a single row of tables and chairs. The activity of preparing food becomes a performative element enjoyed by the diners. The brightly lit tube-like dining space is in turn a beckoning element for passers-by on Sunset Boulevard. The intentional lack of signage on the storefront is itself a subtle marker contrasting with the surrounding context. Artist Mathias Poledna collaborated in creating the identity of the restaurant. A faded number on the front window is a vestige of a previous use of the space.