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Pho Vung Tau
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Pho Vung Tau
7.9
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Compact, family-run shop turning out clean, aromatic pho and vermicelli bowls at wallet-friendly prices. It’s a quick, satisfying stop steps from Washington Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tai, Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli, Cha Gio (imperial rolls)
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Straightforward bowls with bright, balanced broth at low prices.
Who should go: Pho fans wanting fast, affordable comfort
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull between lunch and dinner rush
What to order: Pho tai; lemongrass chicken bun; cha gio
Insider tip: Customize with extra basil and jalapeño—they’re generous with herbs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, usually open spots a block away mid-day but tight at dinner.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; locals stop in post-workout or during errands.
Noise level: Low to moderate—small room with gentle kitchen hum, easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 10-20 minutes at peak hours; turnover is quick.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; service moves efficiently.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—pho chay and tofu vermicelli bowls available.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify vegetarian options by omitting fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Mostly yes—rice noodles and broths are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date values flavor over formality—casual vibe, quick meal, and no-frills setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Always—walk-ins only, and tables turn fast even during rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles; small space means no high chairs or stroller room.
Best For
Better for: Faster, lighter pho and lower prices than larger Vietnamese spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking ambiance, cocktails, or lengthy group dinners—this is built for efficiency.
Pho Vung Tau
7.9
Compact Vallejo Street spot serving Vietnamese staples with straightforward, comforting beef and chicken pho. Portions are solid, prices are friendly, and takeout is fast for a quick noodle fix near Portsmouth Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Special beef pho, Chicken pho, Imperial rolls (cha gio)
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Fast, affordable pho with generous portions on Vallejo Street.
Who should go: Budget-minded pho seekers
When to visit: Early dinner 5–6 pm for minimal waits
What to order: Special beef pho; chicken pho; imperial rolls
Insider tip: Call ahead for takeout—broth and noodles are packed separately.
Pho Vung Tau
7.9
Neighborhood pho shop offering classic bowls, vermicelli plates, and fresh rolls at friendly prices. Service is direct and fast, ideal for a warm-up between Chinatown and North Beach errands.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở Tái, Bún Thịt Nướng, Gỏi Cuốn (Shrimp & Pork)
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Well-balanced broths and speedy counter-style rhythm at low prices.
Who should go: Pho seekers on a tight schedule
When to visit: Weekdays 11–12 or after 7 for minimal wait
What to order: Phở tái; bún thịt nướng; shrimp-and-pork spring rolls
Insider tip: Ask for extra broth on the side if you like it piping hot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—easier on Stockton or Powell before 6 pm; limited metered spaces nearby after that.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; locals often drop by in jeans and hoodies.
Noise level: Moderate—busy chatter during lunch but easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak; quick turnover keeps lines moving.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before noon; slight crowd 12–1:30 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho and tofu vermicelli available on request.
Vegan options: Limited—pho chay can be made vegan by skipping broth with beef base.
Gluten-free options: Partially—rice noodles are gluten-free, but soy sauce and sauces may contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—fast-paced and casual, more functional than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only; tables turn quickly and solo diners are often seated fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and mild noodle dishes suit younger kids; casual noise level helps families blend in.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and more straightforward than fancier pho spots in Chinatown.
Skip if: You’re looking for elaborate plating, cocktail service, or extended menus—this is a no-frills pho stop.