26 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Vietnamese in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Pho in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
Phorage
8.1
A 12-year Palms fixture built on technique-forward pho using American wagyu bones and hormone-free proteins, with the oxtail and washugyu beef versions drawing dedicated repeat customers. The counter-service format keeps things moving, and the $10-20 price point delivers premium ingredients without fine-dining friction. Works best for solo bowls or small groups who want elevated Vietnamese without ceremony.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oxtail Pho, Wagyu Pho, Imperial Rolls
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Modern Vietnamese kitchen combining traditional pho techniques with premium proteins like wagyu and oxtail
Who should go: Pho purists seeking elevated bowls and adventurous eaters
When to visit: Weekday lunch to avoid dinner rush crowds
What to order: Start with imperial rolls, commit to an oxtail or wagyu pho, add broken rice if sharing
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Noise level: Cozy and intimate; small space with communal seating makes it conversational but not loud
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Dedicated options including vegetarian pho with shiitake mushroom broth, tofu spring rolls, and imperial rolls with crispy tofu
Vegan options: Vegan pho with roasted vegetable broth, rice noodles, tofu, and bok choy; marked on menu
Gluten-free options: Rice noodle pho dishes marked as GF on menu; staff knowledgeable about options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal - this is a casual fast-casual spot where you order at a counter, grab a number, and find a seat at communal tables or bar-style counters. The cozy vibe works for hanging out with friends, but the lack of private tables and counter-service format doesn't lend itself to intimate conversation. Better for a low-key third or fourth date than a first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - Phorage operates as fast-casual with counter ordering, so there's no reservation system. During peak hours, expect waits as the space is small (about 5 tables plus communal seating). Off-peak times you can usually walk in and find a seat immediately. Open daily 11am-10pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately - the casual atmosphere and communal seating are forgiving of noise, and pho is generally kid-friendly food. However, no specific kids menu or high chairs were confirmed online. The counter-service format makes it easy for quick family meals. Call ahead to confirm high chair availability: (310) 876-0910.
Is it good for groups? Yes for small groups - the long communal table and casual seating work well for parties of 4-6. The counter-ordering format means everyone can customize their bowls easily. For groups larger than 6, the small space may be challenging. No private dining available.
Is there outdoor seating? No - Phorage is located inside a small strip mall with all seating indoors. The space features tables, communal seating, and counter seats along the wall.
Best For
Better for: Quick solo lunch or small group wanting quality pho in a no-fuss setting; great for counter dining when flying solo
Hours
Monday10am - 9:30pm
Tuesday10am - 9:30pm
Wednesday10am - 9:30pm
Thursday10am - 9:30pm
Friday10am - 9:30pm
Saturday10am - 9:30pm
Sunday10am - 9:30pm