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Best Pho Restaurants in Downtown LA

2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

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Our Top Pick
Au Lac
Upscale vegan Vietnamese cuisine in a historic Downtown LA building with live music programming

Notable Picks

8.2
$$ Downtown LA Vietnamese, Pho
A 24-year pioneer in plant-based Vietnamese cooking, using shiitake and king oyster mushrooms to recreate seafood textures that consistently fool even skeptical diners. The Downtown space offers an upscale, conversation-friendly atmosphere with weekend piano—positioned well for pre-theater crowds from the nearby Ahmanson. Expect $25-35 dishes with generous portions that justify the price point for refined vegan Vietnamese execution.
Must-Try Dishes: Octopus, Pho, Ravioli
What Makes it Special: Upscale vegan Vietnamese cuisine in a historic Downtown LA building with live music programming
$ Downtown LA Vietnamese, Pho
Casual, family-run pho specialist drawing Downtown workers and convention-goers for hearty bowls and quick lunches. The focus is on deeply flavored broths, straightforward toppings, and efficient service rather than décor.
Must-Try Dishes: Combination Pho (Pho Dac Biet), Slices of Chicken Breast Noodle Soup, Phoritto
What Makes it Special: A long-running, family-operated DTLA pho shop known for straightforward, flavorful bowls and fast lunch service.