Best Vietnamese Restaurants in Downtown LA (90012)
7 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Au Lac
8.6
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.
#2
Pho 87
8.4
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.
A bright, modern Chinatown dining room turning out well-executed Vietnamese staples. The pho dac biet and paper-thin bánh xèo anchor a menu that feels both classic and lightly refreshed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Dac Biet, Banh Xeo, Shaken Beef (Bo Luc Lac)
What makes it special: Modern, airy setting with a strong all-around Vietnamese menu.
8.1
A Far East Plaza food-court classic that nails daytime Vietnamese staples. Expect clean-tasting pho, crisp baguette bánh mì, and quick counter service that feels like a neighborhood routine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Ga, Bun Bo Hue, Banh Mi Dac Biet
What makes it special: Food-court speed with surprisingly polished pho and bánh mì.
8.0
A high-volume pho spot near the Chinatown–DTLA edge with a broad menu and steady execution. Broth leans richer and slightly sweeter, and the filet mignon pho is a frequent favorite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Filet Mignon, Bun Thit Nuong, Cha Gio
What makes it special: Big-review-count pho house with dependable bowls all day.
Worthy Picks
7.8
A classic Chinatown bánh mì counter with crackly baguettes and old-school fillings. It’s no-frills, but the liver pâté, pickled veg, and grilled meats hit with the kind of balance that keeps locals coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Banh Mi Dac Biet, Grilled Pork Banh Mi, Vietnamese Iced Coffee
What makes it special: One of the area’s most consistently crisp, traditional bánh mìs.
7.6
A low-key Vietnamese café best for fast, satisfying plates and takeout. The cơm tấm and combo phở are the move, with portions that feel generous for the price.
Must-Try Dishes:
Com Tam Dac Biet, Special Combo Pho, Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
What makes it special: Reliable, affordable Vietnamese plates with speedy service.