We busted in on Pho Lemongrass last week in a rainstorm, so it was slightly impulsive. Vietnamese sounded good at the time, as well as not getting drenched. They were pretty packed, so we got the first table in the middle of everything, where everyone walks by and smacks you with their elbows. Avoid this table at all costs.

One automatic cure for such a problem is a bottle of “33″. But much to my horror, they were out of Vietnamese beer in this Vietnamese restaurant. So I had to settle for something with far less numerals and quotes. In the mean time, we ordered lemongrass stars, which are like batter shells shaped like stars, with a dime-sized piece of chickenstuff in them. If you’re hungry for batter and air, definitely get those. Otherwise, get the spring rolls.

The next logical step was to order the Seafood Madness to ultimately determine how mad it was. I envisioned swirling squids, flying octopi, and dancing shrimp on my plate, all to the tune of “It Must Be Love” by Madness. Alas, it is only standard-fare veggies with scallops, shrimp, and squid, none of which particularly impressed me. The vermicelli was decent, as you would expect.

If you’re starving for Vietnamese and you’re stuck in Coolidge Corner, this is your place. But if you want a real meal, head down Harvard Ave. to V Majestic in Allston. Uncle Bao will hook you up (and it’s BYOB).