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Nom Nam
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Nom Nam
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Nom Nam is a cozy Vietnamese spot on East 34th Street where steaming bowls of pho, spring rolls, and banh mi anchor a compact, focused menu. Locals use it as an easygoing stop for comforting broths, straightforward rice plates, and a quick solo meal or low-key catch-up.
Must-Try Dishes:
O.G. beef pho with brisket and sirloin, Crispy pork spring rolls, Grilled pork banh mi
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A tight, pho-centered menu that feels homey and personal.
Who should go: Pho lovers craving cozy, casual bowls.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before the small room fills.
What to order: O.G. beef pho, crispy spring rolls, grilled pork banh mi.
Insider tip: Sit near the window counter for the fastest in-and-out solo meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; paid garages along East 34th Street are the most reliable option in the evenings.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, sneakers, and workday attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak dinner hours if the room is full.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, with quick table turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable pho, tofu dishes, and spring rolls without meat are available.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with tofu-based options, but broths may not always be fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited — rice noodle pho is naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual first meets than romantic dates — the cozy size and quick-service feel make it relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations are rarely needed, but arriving early on weekend evenings helps avoid a short queue.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles and rice plates, but the compact space isn’t ideal for strollers or large family groups.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable pho with comforting flavors and fast service in a quiet neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, or a full-featured Vietnamese dinner experience.
Nom Nam
8.4
Nom Nam is a compact Vietnamese spot in Murray Hill known for fragrant noodle soups, Hoi An–style chicken rice, and other rice bowls that stay comfortably under $25. It’s an easy choice for a quick, flavorful meal that still feels lighter than most nearby pub or diner options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hoi An Chicken Rice, Beef Pho, Crispy Spring Rolls
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 6.5
What makes it special: Vietnamese soups and rice plates with bright, balanced flavors.
Who should go: Solo diners or pairs wanting a quick, cozy Vietnamese meal.
When to visit: Weeknights or rainy days when pho sounds perfect.
What to order: Hoi An chicken rice, beef pho, crispy spring rolls.
Insider tip: Ask for extra herbs and lime to brighten any noodle soup.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited in Murray Hill and especially tough after 6pm; garages nearby run $18–$30 for evening parking.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and relaxed everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — quiet enough for easy conversation, even during dinner.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours; quicker if you come early.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — tofu pho, vegetable noodle soups, and several meat-free rice bowls.
Vegan options: Limited — a few broth and rice-bowl combinations work with light modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes — rice-based dishes and most pho are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a low-pressure first date — it’s cozy, affordable, and relaxed, but not designed for linger-long, romantic vibes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Almost always — it’s mainly walk-in friendly, with short waits even on busy nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — great for kids who enjoy noodles and rice dishes; no kids menu, but portions are manageable.
Best For
Better for: Lighter, fresher Vietnamese comfort food at true cheap-eats pricing compared to nearby pubs and diners.
Skip if: You want trendy decor, cocktails, or a full sit-down date-night experience.