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ZipPicks Awards
Best Vietnamese in Mid-Wilshire
Best Pho in Mid-Wilshire
Best Wings in Mid-Wilshire
Master Critic Review
Pho Saigon Pearl
8.3
Pho Saigon Pearl on Fairfax leans into a nostalgic retro dining room, an extensive pho lineup, and a full bar with Vietnamese-leaning cocktails. Regulars use it for hearty bowls of noodles, garlic noodles, and small plates before or after time at nearby museums and shopping along Fairfax and Beverly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho with Filet Mignon Rare Steak, Oxtail Pho, Garlic Noodles
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: High-volume Fairfax pho house with retro decor, full bar, and broad noodle menu.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting energetic Vietnamese with cocktails and pho.
When to visit: Evenings for full retro energy; weekday lunches for faster seating.
What to order: Pho with filet mignon, oxtail pho, garlic noodles and spring rolls.
Insider tip: Request a table near the VHS wall, and check for happy hour food and drink specials before ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and Beverly is available but tight after 6pm; metered spots open up later in the evening. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests come in jeans or relaxed weekend outfits.
Noise level: Moderate—lively room with retro energy, but normal conversation is still possible at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially during museum and Grove crossover traffic.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho, tofu dishes, and several veggie-forward appetizers are available.
Vegan options: Limited—pho broth is meat-based, but some appetizers and noodle dishes can be modified.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—rice noodles and many pho options are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its cozy retro vibe, cocktails, and shareable small plates make it an easy, low-pressure date spot without feeling too casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are common. Expect a wait during peak dinner hours, but the bar area is often available sooner.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent it, and the menu suits a wide range of ages. High chairs are usually available, and portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: A more polished, full-service Vietnamese experience with cocktails, retro ambiance, and broader noodle options than quick-service pho shops nearby.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional, minimalist pho at a lower price point or need a fully vegan-friendly menu.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 9pm
Saturday11:30am - 9pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm