Any insider tips for Au Lac?

Ask about seasonal specials—they often showcase newer techniques.

What should I order at Au Lac?

Garlic basil noodles, vegan banh xeo, salt & pepper yam 'shrimp'

When should I visit Au Lac?

Evening for full menu and best ambiance

Who should go to Au Lac?

Vegans, vegetarians, and date-night diners

Any insider tips for Pho 87?

Cash-only vibe still helps you move faster in line.

What should I order at Pho 87?

Pho dac biet, oxtail pho, cha gio

When should I visit Pho 87?

Weekday lunch before 1pm for shortest wait

Who should go to Pho 87?

Pho purists and budget-minded locals

Any insider tips for Sage Blossom?

Central Plaza parking is easiest if you enter from Gin Ling Way.

What should I order at Sage Blossom?

Combination pho, shaken beef, spring rolls.

When should I visit Sage Blossom?

Weekday lunch for the quickest service.

Who should go to Sage Blossom?

Groups and families wanting an easy, sit-down pho lunch.

Best Pho Restaurants in Downtown LA (90012)

3 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Au Lac

8.6

$$ Downtown

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Healthy Haven Date Night Magic Instagram Worthy Wonders

Downtown’s veteran plant-based Vietnamese destination, run by the Nguyen mother-daughter team, with an elegant room and refined technique. The menu reimagines classics—think lemongrass “fish,” turmeric crepes, and glossy garlic basil noodles—with polish that feels special-occasion worthy.

Must-Try Dishes: Garlic Basil Noodles, Banh Xeo Chay, Salt & Pepper 'Shrimp' (Yam)

What makes it special: One of LA’s longest-running vegan Vietnamese restaurants with fine-dining polish.

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#2 Pho 87

8.4

$$ Chinatown

Vibes: Comfort Food Classics Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Family Friendly Favorites

A long-running Chinatown pho house known for deeply savory broth and big, satisfying portions. The menu sticks to Vietnamese comfort-food greatest hits, and the fast, friendly rhythm keeps lines moving even at peak lunch.

Must-Try Dishes: Pho Dac Biet, Pho Oxtail, Cha Gio (Imperial Egg Rolls)

What makes it special: 36-year Chinatown institution with reliably rich, balanced pho broth.

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Worthy Picks

#3 Sage Blossom

7.9

$$$ Chinatown

Vibes: Family Friendly Favorites Comfort Food Classics Trendy Table Hotspots

A bright Central Plaza dining room pairing classic Vietnamese comfort with a slightly more modern Chinatown vibe. The pho here is clean and balanced, with a lighter broth and tidy garnish plate that suits repeat lunch visits. A solid middle-ground option when you want dependable bowls and a calmer sit-down space.

Must-Try Dishes: Combination Pho, Shaken Beef, Vegetarian Spring Rolls

What makes it special: Modern-casual Chinatown setting with reliably executed pho and Vietnamese staples.

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