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Larkin Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Larkin Restaurant
7.6
Compact counter-service spot offering Vietnamese and Chinese comfort staples with quick turnaround. A practical choice near Civic Center for a warm bowl or rice plate.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở bò, Bún thịt nướng, Chả giò (imperial rolls)
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Cross-over Vietnamese/Chinese menu that’s fast and filling.
Who should go: Busy downtown diners
When to visit: Weekdays before noon for shortest lines
What to order: Phở bò, bún thịt nướng, chả giò
Insider tip: Combine a small soup with a shared plate to vary textures.
Larkin Restaurant
8.0
Bright, spacious Little Saigon spot cooking Vietnamese standards with some Chinese-influenced plates. Expect clean pho broths, crisp chả giò, and fast, friendly counter service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bánh xèo (crispy turmeric crêpe), Bún chả giò thịt nướng, Phở gà
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Vietnamese staples in a tidy, roomy setting right on Larkin.
Who should go: Groups who want pho plus rice plates
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm before peak
What to order: Banh xeo, bun cha gio thit nuong, pho ga
Insider tip: Share the bánh xèo—one order easily feeds two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking—metered until 6pm, then competitive. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual. Jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate. Buzz of conversation and kitchen clatter, but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak around 7–8pm
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even at noon rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—spring rolls, vegetarian pho, tofu and vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Limited—pho chay and a few vegetable stir-fry dishes, but sauces may contain fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Yes—pho rice noodles and rice plates are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauces may not be celiac-safe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date—it’s bright, casual, and family-friendly. Better for a low-key meal or casual catch-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. They don’t take reservations, but tables usually turn quickly thanks to fast service.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Spacious seating, high chairs available, and familiar rice and noodle dishes make it easy for kids.
Best For
Better for: Clean, spacious setting with faster service and more variety of both pho and rice plates compared to smaller pho shops nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet, intimate dinner spot or want more adventurous regional Vietnamese dishes.