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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gems Vietnamese in the Mission District
Best Vietnamese in the Mission District
Master Critic Review
Hem by LeQuy
8.3
Modern Vietnamese spot on the Valencia corridor serving clean, balanced takes on classics alongside comforting homestyle plates. Locals come for thoughtful flavors without the fuss and a calm room that still feels Mission-casual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bún thịt nướng (grilled pork vermicelli), Cá kho tộ (caramelized fish claypot), Chả giò (crispy imperial rolls)
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Thoughtful, modern Vietnamese plates anchored by tradition.
Who should go: Flavor-first eaters who like quiet buzz
When to visit: Early evenings for easy seating and warm service
What to order: Imperial rolls; grilled pork vermicelli; claypot fish
Insider tip: Ask for herb refills to brighten noodles and rice plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Valencia and 19th can be tight after 6 pm; aim for residential spots on Guerrero or nearby side streets.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—most guests come in neat streetwear or date-night casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate—music and conversation hum, but still easy to chat across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins around 7–8 pm; reservations recommended for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; can fill by 12:30 pm on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple tofu and vegetable dishes built with balance and flavor.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be adapted by removing fish sauce or egg.
Gluten-free options: Partial—many rice-based plates qualify, but soy sauce is used in marinades; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—cozy lighting, polished plating, and relaxed energy make it ideal for a low-key but thoughtful first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes on weekdays before 7 pm; on weekends, come early or be ready for a short wait list.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult crowd, but calm environment and familiar flavors make it fine for kids 8 and up; no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Elevated yet approachable Vietnamese food without the noise or hype of flashier Mission spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking street-food energy or extensive vegan options—other local spots like Mau or Yummy Yummy may suit better.
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
WednesdayClosed
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 9pm
Saturday11am - 9pm
Sunday11am - 9pm