The frills at this Vietnamese restaurant a 10-minute walk from downtown Minneapolis are most decidedly not in the décor. This basic, 12-table establishment is distinguished primarily for its noodle dishes, like lo mein with fresh vegetables, and meat replacements like mock duck. Lotus has carnivores covered as well; beef with green peppers is a solid choice, as is the pork with spring pea pods. The phở is equally solid, with the traditional beef soup joined by less orthodox proteins like chicken and barbecue pork.