Best Hidden Gems Vietnamese Restaurants in Russian Hill (94109)
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Hai Ky Noodles
Beloved Little Saigon noodle house with an iconic duck-leg soup.
Notable Picks
8.3
Little Saigon stalwart known for Cantonese-Vietnamese noodle soups and a legendary braised duck leg wonton bowl. No-frills setting, big flavors, and prices that keep neighborhood regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Braised duck leg with wonton egg noodles, House special wonton egg noodle soup, Beef stew noodle soup
What makes it special: Beloved Little Saigon noodle house with an iconic duck-leg soup.
Modern, family-owned spot (since 2021) highlighting central-Vietnam flavors with Hanoi vermicelli, spicy beef noodle soup, and wok-fried garlic noodles. A tidy room and longer menu make it a polished neighborhood option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở tái (rare beef), Chicken phở, Bún thịt nướng
What makes it special: Brisk, reliable phở with clean broths on busy Polk Street.
Worthy Picks
#3
Pho Vietnam
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Classic Polk Street pho shop turning out generously portioned bowls and crisp imperial rolls. It’s a straightforward, reliable stop when you want a steaming broth and quick service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở tái (rare steak), Phở gà, Meatball pho
What makes it special: Straightforward, affordable bowls served fast on Polk.