Food Mega-Influencer Keith Lee Declares Toronto Pho Among World’s Best
The ‘Keith Lee Effect’ brings a potential sales tsunami to a family-run Vietnamese restaurant in Toronto.
TORONTO – Celebrity food critic and social media powerhouse Keith Lee has sent the Toronto culinary scene into a frenzy this week after declaring a bowl of pho from a modest, family-owned restaurant might be the best he’s ever had.
In a viral review posted to his millions of followers, Lee awarded the pho from Pho Ngoc Yen a near-perfect score of 9.4 out of 10. The Las Vegas-based influencer, known for his thorough and impactful reviews, specifically highlighted the broth’s depth and clarity, calling it “one of the best dishes” he’s ever experienced.
“It’s been nearly two years since food mega-influencer Keith Lee broke the Toronto internet when he reviewed restaurants around the city, and he’s finally back,” reported local outlet BlogTO. The co-owner of Pho Ngoc Yen expressed shock at the random visit, telling NOW Toronto the review could “boost sales and increase staff hours.”
The phenomenon, widely dubbed the “Keith Lee Effect,” refers to the dramatic surge in business and visibility that follows one of his positive reviews. Restaurants featured on his platform often experience lines out the door and a complete transformation in their fortunes overnight.
Who is Keith Lee?
Keith Lee (born October 4, 1996) is an American social media personality, food critic, and professional mixed martial artist. According to his MMA fighter profiles, he competes as a featherweight with a professional record of 8 wins and 5 losses. He is associated with Xtreme Couture and fights out of Las Vegas.
His unique dual career has built a massive following online, where his genuine, no-frills food reviews have earned him a reputation for honesty and significant influence over dining trends across North America.
Impact on Toronto’s Food Scene
Lee’s return to Toronto marks his first visit in nearly two years, following a previous series of reviews that captivated the city’s food lovers. His latest stop at Pho Ngoc Yen, located in Toronto’s Vietnamese community, has put a spotlight on the city’s diverse and authentic culinary offerings.
“Celebrity food critic Keith Lee said he might have had the ‘best pho’ of his life at a family-run Vietnamese restaurant in Toronto,” reported CTV News Toronto, capturing the widespread media attention the review has received.
Local Reaction: The review has been met with excitement from Toronto foodies and support for small businesses. The story underscores the power of social media influencers in today’s hospitality industry, where a single post can have a multi-million dollar impact on a local establishment.
As of 26 March 2026, the owners of Pho Ngoc Yen are preparing for an influx of new customers, hoping to sustain the momentum from what they call a life-changing moment for their restaurant.