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Cyclo
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Cyclo
8.3
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
A long-running LIC Vietnamese standby where pho is the anchor and the kitchen leans into comfort-first bowls that are built for repeat visits. Best when you keep the order classic—one beef pho, one crisp side, and eat it there while the noodles are at peak texture.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Pho, Chicken Pho, Banh Mi
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Classic Vietnamese comfort cooking with pho as the dependable house staple.
Who should go: Pho regulars and comfort-seekers who value consistency
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner for the smoothest service
What to order: Beef pho, chicken pho, banh mi
Insider tip: Dine in—pho lands best before the noodles soften.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking in Hunters Point; generally manageable midday, tighter after 6pm on weeknights.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—lively during peak hours but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak dinner hours; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a brief 5–10 minute pause.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho and vegetable-forward noodle dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited—can be done with modifications, but confirm broth and sauces with the server.
Gluten-free options: Mostly—pho uses rice noodles, but always check broth ingredients and cross-contact details.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something low-pressure and comfortable. It’s casual and cozy rather than romantic, making conversation easy without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Cyclo operates primarily as a walk-in spot, and tables usually turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—pho is approachable for kids, portions are flexible, and the relaxed environment works well for families.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, comfort-first pho with consistent execution—ideal for repeat visits and group meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for a trend-driven Vietnamese menu or a more design-forward, date-night-focused experience.
Cyclo
7.9
A Vietnamese mainstay that’s especially useful for gluten-free diners because rice noodles, broths, and herb-forward plates are easy to navigate. You’ll get the best experience by focusing on pho and vermicelli bowls, then double-checking sauces and any fried items for cross-contact.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho (rice noodles), Bún vermicelli bowl, Fresh spring rolls (confirm gluten-free sauce)
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Rice-noodle Vietnamese staples that are naturally gluten-free-leaning.
Who should go: Gluten-free diners craving pho and herbs.
When to visit: Lunch hours for quickest service.
What to order: Pho, vermicelli bowl, fresh rolls.
Insider tip: Confirm sauces and avoid fried items if cross-contact is a concern.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking around Hunters Point; generally manageable during the day, tighter after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sneakers, workday attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes at peak times; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable pho, tofu vermicelli bowls, and fresh rolls with simple modifications.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—stick to vegetable broths, tofu, vermicelli bowls, and fresh herbs; confirm sauces.
Gluten-free options: Strong naturally gluten-free options centered on rice noodles and broths; no dedicated prep area, so confirm cross-contact concerns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something low-pressure and comfortable—more about good food and easy conversation than a high-drama vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes. Walk-ins are standard here, especially at lunch and early dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—brothy noodles and mild options work well for kids, though the room is better for quick meals than long family outings.
Best For
Better for: Reliable gluten-free Vietnamese staples, especially pho and vermicelli bowls that don’t feel like compromises.
Skip if: You’re looking for a buzzy nightlife scene or extensive fried and shareable dishes—this is more about clean, comforting bowls.