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Bối-licious
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Bối-licious
8.4
Boi Licious is a narrow, mostly takeout Vietnamese counter just off Grand Central that turns out inexpensive banh mi, pho, and curry soups for neighborhood regulars. High-volume online ratings highlight fast ticket times, generous portions, and better-than-expected depth of flavor for the price point.
Must-Try Dishes:
Banh Mi Saigon, Pho Saigon, Beef Shin Bun Bo
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Tiny Grand Central-adjacent shop serving sharp, inexpensive Vietnamese classics.
Who should go: Commuters needing fast, filling Vietnamese under $15.
When to visit: Midday or early evening to avoid the tightest crush.
What to order: Banh Mi Saigon, Pho Saigon, Beef Shin Bun Bo.
Insider tip: Grab your order and walk a few minutes to eat in a quieter plaza.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is extremely limited near Grand Central; rely on nearby paid garages along 41st–43rd Streets if needed.
Dress code: No dress code—purely casual and commuter-friendly.
Noise level: Moderate during rush periods due to the narrow space and constant takeout flow.
Weekend wait: Minimal wait—foot traffic drops significantly on weekends.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes at peak; orders move quickly despite the crowd.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several veggie-forward pho, tofu, and noodle options.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—ask for tofu substitutions and vegetable broth where available.
Gluten-free options: Some soups and rice-noodle dishes are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated GF protocols.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's a tight, mostly takeout counter with little ambiance. Better for a quick, inexpensive bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are very few seats and turnover is fast; expect takeout. If you want to sit, arrive off-peak.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who can handle quick-service settings; limited seating and cramped space may be tough for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Speed, value, and generous portions—stronger for grab-and-go Vietnamese than most Midtown competitors.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, a quiet setting, or expanded vegan/gluten-free assurance.
Bối-licious
8.0
Tucked on East 44th Street, Bối-licious turns out pho, bun bo hue and Vietnamese-style sandwiches in a compact counter-service space geared to takeout. Broths are praised as deeply flavored for the price, making it a go-to for workers and UN staff looking for a warming bowl without Midtown markups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp pho, Bun bo hue, Banh mi Saigon
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Tiny Vietnamese counter with surprisingly robust broths and generous portions.
Who should go: Pho and noodle lovers working around Grand Central or the UN.
When to visit: Cooler days at lunch or early evening for the shortest wait.
What to order: Shrimp pho, bun bo hue, a classic banh mi Saigon.
Insider tip: Call in or order ahead online—seating is limited so most regulars grab and go.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on East 44th; metered spots open up after 7pm, but most diners rely on nearby garages along 3rd Avenue.
Dress code: Completely casual—office wear, hoodies and grab-and-go attire are all common.
Noise level: Low to moderate—it's a compact counter shop where you can hold a conversation, but peak lunch hours get bustling.
Weekend wait: Typically 5–10 minutes; traffic is lighter since it’s a business-district spot.
Weekday lunch: Expect a short line and 5–15 minute wait during the office rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho and tofu-based options are usually available.
Vegan options: Limited—some soups and rice bowls can be made vegan by request, but broth-based items may constrain choices.
Gluten-free options: Partially—rice noodles and many ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—the space is mostly counter seating and designed for quick meals, not lingering conversation or ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations; seating is limited, so most guests order takeout during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy noodles or pho; no high chairs or stroller space, so not the best fit for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: A fast, affordable Vietnamese bowl with deeper-than-expected broth and efficient service near Grand Central.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, spacious seating or a more atmospheric Vietnamese restaurant experience.