Clumped noodles != good pho.

As far as blandness, the pho itself generally doesn't have a strong flavor -- it's just noodles in broth, after all. What makes the difference are the items added to the noodles, and the flavorings offered alongside it. Good places will give you some veggies and a lime wedge on the plate. And even mediocre places ought to offer you stir-ins such as plum sauce and chili sauce.