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Pho Grand
ZipPicks Awards
Best Vietnamese in Lower East Side
Best Pho in Lower East Side
Master Critic Review
Pho Grand
8.2
Pho Grand is a longstanding Chinatown favorite where a sprawling menu covers multiple pho styles, fried appetizers, and rice dishes in a no-frills, always-busy room. With hundreds of reviews and steady traffic, it’s a go-to when you want a reliable bowl of beef noodle soup near the bridge.
Must-Try Dishes:
House pho with mixed beef cuts, Summer rolls with shrimp and herbs, Curry chicken over rice
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A high-traffic pho specialist with a big menu and fast kitchen.
Who should go: Pho fans wanting lots of variation and steady execution
When to visit: Weeknights or off-peak lunch to skip the longest waits
What to order: House pho, summer rolls, curry chicken over rice
Insider tip: If you’re with a group, mix one or two non-pho dishes into the order—the kitchen handles volume well.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Grand Street and adjacent blocks is limited; expect meter hunting or plan for nearby paid garages on Chrystie or Bowery.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, jeans, and everyday wear fit right into the Chinatown pho-house energy.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; conversations are doable but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during prime hours, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including vegetarian pho, tofu dishes, and veggie spring rolls.
Vegan options: Limited—vegetarian pho can be customized but broth may not be fully vegan; ask staff.
Gluten-free options: Pho with rice noodles works for many gluten-sensitive diners, but soy sauce–based items may contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves casual, no-frills noodle shops. The space is busy and functional, not romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Pho Grand is walk-in only and tables turn quickly. Arrive off-peak for the smoothest experience.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with kids who like noodles and rice dishes; high chairs are limited and strollers can be tricky during rush hours.
Best For
Better for: A large, varied pho menu served fast in a Chinatown location ideal for groups who want reliable Vietnamese classics.
Skip if: You want a quieter room, modern plating, or chef-driven Vietnamese; consider LES/Little Italy options instead.