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An Chi
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
An Chi
8.0
Compact counter-service noodle and banh mi shop with fast ticket times and bright, punchy flavors. It’s a go-to for quick bowls, grilled-pork vermicelli, and under-$15 lunches along the Geary corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork vermicelli), Pho Dac Biet, Combo Banh Mi
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Speedy, affordable bowls and sandwiches with crisp, fresh herbs.
Who should go: Lunch hunters and solo diners
When to visit: Weekdays 11–1 for the freshest turnover
What to order: Bun thit nuong, pho dac biet, combo banh mi
Insider tip: Add a side of house-pickled chiles to sharpen rich broths.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Geary Blvd and 28th Ave; generally available before noon, tighter during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — everyday attire is perfectly fine; most guests come in jeans or work clothes.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to hold a conversation except during peak lunch rush when the room fills quickly.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes max, as most diners order quickly and tables turn fast.
Weekday lunch: No wait before noon; brief 5-minute queue during peak lunch hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — tofu bun, vegetarian pho, and spring rolls available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few dishes can be customized without fish sauce upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — rice noodle dishes and pho are naturally gluten-free; banh mi should be avoided.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s more of a quick, casual spot for solo or friend lunches than a sit-down date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-in only, counter-style ordering ensures steady turnover even during busy periods.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — kids who enjoy noodles or grilled meats will be happy here, though space for strollers is limited.
Best For
Better for: Speed, affordability, and flavor punch — great for quick pho or vermicelli without sacrificing freshness.
Skip if: You’re looking for table service, cocktails, or an extended sit-down meal.
An Chi
8.1
Compact Vietnamese spot turning out bright, modern-leaning plates alongside the staples. It’s a dependable Geary option for brisk service and well-seasoned grilled meats, bun bowls, and hearty soups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup), Cơm tấm sườn (broken rice with pork chop), Bún chả giò thịt nướng (egg roll & pork vermicelli)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Spicy soups and grilled plates hit with focused seasoning.
Who should go: Weeknight dinner seekers on Geary
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7:30pm before peak rush
What to order: Bún bò Huế; broken rice pork chop; vermicelli combo
Insider tip: Add house chili oil to bump depth without overwhelming heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Geary is your best bet—usually manageable before 6:30pm but tight later in the evening. No private lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—locals drop in wearing hoodies or light jackets after work.
Noise level: Moderate—steady conversation buzz from dine-in traffic but still easy to talk across the table.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes depending on group size; solo diners often seated right away.
Weekday lunch: No wait or very short wait during early lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—spring rolls, tofu vermicelli, and veggie pho are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be modified if you ask to omit fish sauce or egg.
Gluten-free options: Partially—pho and rice plates are naturally gluten-free, but soy and sauces may contain trace gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual get-togethers than romantic first dates—it’s compact, friendly, and fast-paced rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—An Chi doesn’t take reservations. Arrive before 7pm for the best chance at immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are accommodating with kids, and the menu’s noodle and rice dishes work well for all ages. Space is tight for strollers though.
Best For
Better for: Brighter, more modern flavors and presentation than old-school pho joints nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a long, sit-down meal or a quiet dinner setting—this is a brisk, casual experience.
An Chi
7.9
Neighborhood Vietnamese spot known for customizable bowls alongside banh mi and vermicelli—plus a solid lineup of phở styles. It’s fast, friendly, and reliable with portions that deliver strong value.
Must-Try Dishes:
Five-spice chicken noodle soup, Phở tái nạm (rare steak & brisket), Vegetarian phở
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Broad phở lineup with standout five-spice chicken broth.
Who should go: Budget-minded pho fans
When to visit: Late lunch for shortest waits
What to order: Five-spice chicken phở; phở tái nạm; vegetarian phở
Insider tip: Grab banh mi to go—good bread and travel-friendly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Geary or nearby avenues; expect light competition during peak dinner hours but generally manageable.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, hoodies, and everyday attire fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate; conversations are easy even when the dining room is full.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes at peak hours; faster for small parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though limited tables can fill quickly during school lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—dedicated vegetarian phở and vermicelli options available.
Vegan options: Limited—vegetable phở can be made vegan upon request; sauces may contain fish.
Gluten-free options: Rice noodles are gluten-free, but broths are not guaranteed gluten-free due to soy-based ingredients.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date values casual, low-pressure settings—this is more about comfort and good soup than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only; tables turn over quickly thanks to efficient service.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly with quick service, booster seats, and simple options like chicken phở or rice plates.
Best For
Better for: Affordable, consistent phở and quick service—great for weeknight meals or casual family dining.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale presentation, cocktails, or a lingering dinner experience.
An Chi
7.9
Compact Vietnamese spot turning out hearty pho, bun bowls, and bánh mì at fair prices. Efficient counter service and consistent portions make it a dependable Richmond standby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Pho, Grilled Pork Vermicelli, Chicken Bánh Mì
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Well-priced bowls and sandwiches with reliable flavors and speed.
Who should go: Budget-minded pho and bun fans
When to visit: Early lunch or early dinner to avoid lines
What to order: Beef pho; grilled pork bun; chicken bánh mì
Insider tip: Request extra herbs or chili oil to tweak broth intensity.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary and nearby side streets is usually available but can be tight during peak meal hours. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; locals drop in post-errand or during lunch breaks.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversation-friendly except during weekend lunch rushes.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak times; turnover is quick.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tofu and vegetable pho and vermicelli options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—vegetable pho can be made vegan upon request, but sauces may contain fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Partially—pho and rice noodle dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid bánh mì and soy sauces unless confirmed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it’s casual counter service with quick turnover, better for a laid-back bite before a movie or walk.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations are taken. Arrive early for lunch or before 6:30pm for dinner to find open seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and moderate noise make it a good fit for families with kids 5 and up.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable Vietnamese staples with generous portions and friendly service—perfect for weekday meals.
Skip if: You’re seeking a slow, atmospheric dining experience or upscale ambiance; opt for PPQ Dungeness Island instead.