To briefly peel back the curtain on the Volume One World Headquarters, one of the most difficult moments of the past year was learning the Pho Friday special at Rice Palace (210 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire) was ending. The discount frequently drew a crowd from our office to enjoy the brothy bliss of massive bowls of Rice Palace pho for lunch. Fortunately, while the discount may have retired, the breathtaking pho remains on the menu. Seven-time winner Egg Roll Plus (1611 Bellinger St., Eau Claire) is also beloved for its on-the-go pho, and Thai Orchid (203 N. Barstow St., Eau Claire) remains a fan favorite as well. –Tom Giffey